The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) 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 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 other labor supporters. The group called on the Senate to take action after the House of Representatives passed the bill.
“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 an executive order from March 27, 2025, issued by President Donald Trump that removed collective bargaining rights from federal workers. Union representatives say this order negatively impacted civil servants’ ability to have representation at work.
Federal employees provide critical services such as public safety, national security, and community support throughout the United States. Supporters argue that reinstating collective bargaining is necessary for ensuring workplace safety, fair treatment, and effective government service.
The IAM continues to support NFFE-IAM and federal workers in advocating for immediate passage of PAWA by the Senate. Workers and supporters are encouraged to contact their senators in support of restoring these protections.
