The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has addressed its members regarding the possibility of a federal government shutdown set for October 1, 2025. The union highlighted concerns for both federal employees and contract workers, many of whom are IAM and NFFE-IAM members.
In a statement, the IAM called on lawmakers to reach a bipartisan funding agreement to avoid 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 message read. The union also criticized what it described as threats from the White House to use a shutdown as grounds for dismissing federal workers.
The IAM, together with its affiliate National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), represents more than 110,000 federal workers nationwide. The organization referenced the impact of previous shutdowns, noting that during the 35-day government closure in early 2019, over one million federal contract workers went without pay.
To address these issues, the IAM is supporting legislation known as the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. Sponsored by Senators Tina Smith, Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Chris Van Hollen, and Angela Alsobrooks, this bill would provide compensation for contract workers who lose wages during government shutdowns.
Members were advised to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official furlough notice. The union encouraged staying informed through email updates and reminded members that support from both IAM and NFFE-IAM would continue throughout any potential shutdown.
The statement concluded: “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.”
