The federal government shutdown continues, affecting many members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and the National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM (NFFE-IAM). These unions represent thousands of workers employed by federal agencies, federal contractors, or in sectors that depend on federal funding. The shutdown has resulted in missed paychecks, contract suspensions, delayed maintenance, and uncertainty for families who rely on these jobs.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant called for an end to the shutdown through bipartisan cooperation. “The IAM Union strongly urges a bipartisan funding solution, negotiated in good faith between Democrats and Republicans, to end this shutdown,” said Bryant. “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 NFFE-IAM are encouraging their members who have been furloughed, missed paychecks, or experienced disruptions at federal contractors, defense facilities, the VA, FAA, or other federally funded employers to share their experiences with the union. They say these stories will help them advocate for a government that supports workers rather than using them as bargaining chips.
Union officials report that their national and legislative teams are working on Capitol Hill to advocate for a swift resolution to the shutdown and long-term worker protections. They emphasize solidarity with all affected workers and demand accountability from lawmakers responsible for the situation.
Members are advised to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official written furlough notice, as missing work without such notice could be considered an unexcused absence. The unions recommend staying informed by signing up for email updates using personal email addresses and encourage members to rely on union support during this period.
Additional resources have been made available to assist those impacted by the shutdown, including guidance websites and information about unemployment insurance.
