The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has addressed its members regarding the potential government shutdown set for October 1, 2025. The union represents over 110,000 federal employees through IAM and its affiliate, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM).
In a statement to members, the IAM expressed concern about the impact of a shutdown on federal workers and contract employees. “Once again, our nation’s federal employees and federal contract workers are facing the threat of a government shutdown on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. And once again, hardworking men and women, many of them proud IAM and NFFE-IAM members, are being treated as pawns in a political game.”
The organization called for bipartisan cooperation to avoid disruption. “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.”
Referencing previous events, the union highlighted the effects of past government closures: more than one million federal contract workers missed pay during the 35-day government shutdown in early 2019.
To address these concerns long-term, IAM is supporting legislative efforts in Congress such as the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. This bill aims to ensure that contract workers receive back pay after any future shutdowns.
Members were advised to continue reporting to work unless they receive official furlough notices and were encouraged to stay informed via union communications. The message emphasized solidarity: “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.”
