Federal employees and federal contract workers are facing the possibility of a government shutdown on October 1, 2025. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has addressed its members regarding the situation, highlighting the impact such shutdowns have on working families.
The IAM called for bipartisan cooperation to avoid a shutdown. “The IAM strongly urges a bipartisan funding solution, negotiated in good faith between Democrats and Republicans, to prevent a 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.”
IAM and its affiliate, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), represent more than 110,000 federal workers across the United States. The organizations expressed concern over the hardships faced by their members when paychecks are halted due to government closures.
According to the union, over one million federal contract workers missed pay during the 35-day government shutdown in early 2019, including thousands who were furloughed IAM members.
To address these issues, IAM is supporting legislative efforts in Congress such as the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. This bill is led by Senators Tina Smith, Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Chris Van Hollen, and Angela Alsobrooks. If passed, it would ensure that contract workers receive compensation for lost wages during future shutdowns.
IAM advised its members to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official furlough notice. The union also encouraged members to stay informed through email updates and reminded them that both IAM and NFFE-IAM would continue advocacy efforts on their behalf.
“We will not allow reckless elected officials to gamble with the livelihoods of the men and women who keep this country running. We are stronger when we work together,” stated IAM leadership.
