The federal government remains shut down, impacting thousands of members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) and the National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM (NFFE-IAM). These workers are employed at federal agencies, as federal contractors, or in industries that depend on federally funded projects. The shutdown has resulted in missed paychecks, halted contracts, delayed maintenance, and uncertainty for many families.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant addressed the situation by saying: “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 collecting stories from its members who have been furloughed or affected by work disruptions due to the shutdown. This includes those working for federal contractors, defense facilities, the VA, FAA, or other federally funded employers. According to the union’s message: “Your voice will help your Union fight for a government that serves working people, rather than using them as pawns.”
IAM’s National and Legislative team continues its efforts on Capitol Hill with the aim of ending the shutdown quickly and securing protections for workers. The union states: “We stand in solidarity with every impacted worker and demand accountability from the lawmakers who created this crisis.”
Members are encouraged to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official written furlough notice. They are also advised to stay informed through IAM and NFFE-IAM email updates sent to their personal addresses so they do not miss important information about the shutdown. The union emphasizes ongoing support: “Lean on your union. The IAM and NFFE-IAM will continue to fight for you every single day on Capitol Hill and in your workplace. You are not alone.”
Additional resources have been made available online for furlough guidance and information regarding unemployment insurance.
