The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) joined the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and other federal worker unions at a rally urging the U.S. Senate to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA). The legislation aims to restore collective bargaining rights for federal workers across the country.
Union leaders, federal employees, and elected officials participated in the event, calling for Senate action after the bill was approved by the House of Representatives. Speakers at the rally included NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), among other labor advocates.
“We have this essential piece of legislation, which passed the House and is now waiting for action in the Senate,” said Erwin. “This bill would protect the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment rights of American workers by reversing an unconstitutional executive order that stripped more than one million federal employees of their right to collectively bargain.”
The Protect America’s Workforce Act seeks to reverse an executive order issued on March 27, 2025, by President Donald Trump that removed collective bargaining rights from federal workers. Union representatives described this order as undermining civil servants’ fundamental workplace rights.
Federal workers are responsible for public safety, national security, and providing essential services throughout communities nationwide. According to union statements at the rally, restoring collective bargaining is necessary for these employees to advocate for safe workplaces and fair treatment.
The IAM Union expressed its support for NFFE-IAM and all federal employees in their call for immediate Senate passage of PAWA to reinstate worker protections.
Federal workers and supporters are encouraged by unions to contact their senators and urge a yes vote on PAWA to restore collective bargaining rights.
