The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) joined the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and other unions at a rally urging the U.S. Senate to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA). The event brought together union leaders, federal employees, and elected officials to advocate for restoring collective bargaining rights for federal workers.
Speakers at the rally included NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), and several labor advocates. The call for Senate action follows the bill’s approval in the House of Representatives.
“We have this essential piece of legislation, which passed the House and is now waiting for action in the Senate,” said Erwin. “This bill would protect the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment rights of American workers by reversing an unconstitutional executive order that stripped more than one million federal employees of their right to collectively bargain.”
The proposed law seeks to overturn a March 27, 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump that removed collective bargaining rights from federal workers. Union representatives argue that this order weakened civil servants’ ability to negotiate over workplace conditions.
Federal employees are responsible for various services including public safety, national security, and community programs across the United States. Supporters say restoring their collective bargaining rights is necessary for advocating safe workplaces, fair treatment, and efficient service delivery.
The IAM Union continues to support NFFE-IAM and other unions in encouraging swift passage of PAWA by the Senate. Federal workers and supporters are being asked to contact their senators in support of reinstating these protections.
