Federal employees and contract workers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) are facing the possibility of a government shutdown scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The IAM has expressed concern over the recurring use of federal workers as leverage in political disputes.
“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,” stated the organization.
The IAM, together with its affiliate National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), represents more than 110,000 federal workers across the United States. According to the union, many members experienced financial hardship during previous shutdowns. For example, over one million federal contract workers missed pay during the 35-day government shutdown in early 2019, which included thousands of furloughed IAM members.
In response to these challenges, the IAM is collaborating with lawmakers in Congress on legislation called the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. This bill aims to guarantee that contract workers receive compensation for wages lost during government shutdowns. The legislation is being led by Senators Tina Smith, Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Chris Van Hollen, and Angela Alsobrooks.
The IAM advises its members to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official written furlough notice and encourages them to stay informed through union updates. The organization emphasizes that it will continue advocating for its members both in Congress and at workplaces.
“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,” said the statement from IAM leadership.
