The ongoing federal government shutdown is affecting many members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM (NFFE-IAM). These workers are employed by federal agencies, federal contractors, or in sectors that depend on federally funded projects. The shutdown has led to missed paychecks, halted contracts, delayed maintenance, and uncertainty for working families.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant called for an end to the shutdown through bipartisan cooperation. “The IAM Union strongly urges a bipartisan funding solution, negotiated in good faith between Democrats and Republicans, to end this shutdown,” said Bryant. “A shutdown is unjust, cruel, and devastating to working families, and we will never stand by while our members are used as leverage for political gain. The IAM also strongly condemns the White House’s threat to use a shutdown as a means to justify illegally firing scores of federal workers.”
IAM and NFFE-IAM are encouraging their members who have been furloughed, missed paychecks, or experienced work disruptions due to the shutdown—whether working for federal contractors, defense facilities, the VA, FAA, or other federally funded employers—to share their stories. The union states that these personal accounts will help advocate for policies that support working people.
Union representatives report they are actively working on Capitol Hill to defend members’ interests and push for an end to the shutdown. They also aim to secure long-term protections for workers affected by government funding lapses.
Members are advised to continue reporting to work unless they receive official written furlough notices. The unions recommend staying informed through email updates and relying on union support during this period.
IAM and NFFE-IAM express solidarity with all impacted workers and call for accountability from lawmakers responsible for the situation.
