The ongoing federal government shutdown continues to impact thousands of workers, including members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) and the National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM (NFFE-IAM). Many of these union members are employed by federal agencies, federal contractors, or in sectors that depend on federally funded projects. The shutdown has resulted in missed paychecks, halted contracts, delayed maintenance, and increased uncertainty for working families.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant commented on the situation, stating, “The IAM Union strongly urges a bipartisan funding solution, negotiated in good faith between Democrats and Republicans, to end this shutdown. 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.”
The union is encouraging affected members, including those who have been furloughed, missed paychecks, or experienced work disruptions, to share their stories. This call is extended to those working for federal contractors, defense facilities, the VA, FAA, and other federally funded employers. The union believes that these personal accounts will support its efforts to advocate for a government that prioritizes workers’ interests.
IAM’s National and Legislative team is actively working on Capitol Hill to represent union members, press for an end to the shutdown, and pursue long-term worker protections. The union has expressed solidarity with all impacted workers and called for accountability from lawmakers responsible for the situation.
Members are advised to report to work as usual unless they receive an official written furlough notice. Missing work without such notice could be considered an unexcused absence. The union also encourages members to stay informed by signing up for email updates and reminds them that both IAM and NFFE-IAM continue to advocate on their behalf.
Additional resources have been made available for those affected, including guidance on furloughs and unemployment insurance.
