The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) joined the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and other unions in 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 lawmakers to call for Senate action after the bill passed in the House of Representatives.
Speakers at the rally included NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), as well as other labor advocates. “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 Protect America’s Workforce Act aims to overturn a March 27, 2025 executive order issued by former President Donald Trump that removed collective bargaining rights from federal workers. The order affected over one million employees and has been described by union representatives as undermining worker protections.
Federal workers are responsible for maintaining public safety, national security, and delivering essential services across communities nationwide. Supporters argue that restoring collective bargaining rights is necessary to allow these employees to advocate for safe workplaces, fair treatment, and effective service delivery.
The IAM Union continues to support NFFE-IAM and all federal workers in their request for immediate passage of PAWA by the Senate. Both unions are encouraging federal employees and supporters to contact their senators about voting in favor of restoring collective bargaining rights.
For additional information on union efforts urging Senate action on this bill, see Federal News Network: https://federalnewsnetwork.com/workforce/2026/01/federal-unions-employees-urge-senate-to-take-up-bill-restoring-collective-bargaining/.
