Approximately 1,600 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) working at Honeywell FM&T in Kansas City are expected to be furloughed starting November 1, 2025. This action comes as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has impacted funding for key programs.
The Honeywell facility operates under a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy. According to current plans, the site will enter shutdown mode on October 27, leaving only a small number of employees at work unless Congress approves funding for energy and water development appropriations.
“This is a devastating and unnecessary blow to 1,600 working families in Kansas City who proudly support our nation’s defense and energy programs,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “Our members should not be used as pawns in a political stalemate. Congress must act now to end this shutdown and protect working Americans.”
IAM Local 778 represents about 1,611 workers at Honeywell FM&T. The local union is focused on ensuring that the terms of its collective bargaining agreement are followed during the furlough process. In addition, IAM Union officials are preparing workshops aimed at helping affected workers understand unemployment benefits and access career resources if they are furloughed.
“This shutdown has real consequences for the real working Americans in this country and right here in Kansas City,” said IAM Local 778 Directing Business Representative Scott Brown. “Our members are dedicated, highly skilled workers who should not be left in limbo because of Washington’s failure to pass a budget.”
The IAM Union continues to urge lawmakers to resolve the government shutdown quickly and address concerns faced by federal contract workers. The union has also pushed for legislative changes that would guarantee back pay and provide stronger protections for these employees during lapses in government funding.
