The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), which represents 600,000 members, has announced its support for the Federal Employees Civil Relief Act. The legislation, introduced by U.S. Representatives Brendan F. Boyle and Emily Randall, with a companion bill sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz, is designed to protect federal employees and contractors from financial challenges during government shutdowns or breaches of the federal debt limit.
If enacted, the act would suspend certain civil liabilities for furloughed workers or those required to work without pay. This includes relief from rent, mortgage payments, student loans, and tax obligations, while also protecting against eviction, foreclosure, credit penalties, and loss of insurance coverage.
Brian Bryant, International President of the IAM Union, stated, “Every time there’s a government shutdown, the people who keep our country running — the men and women who maintain our aircraft, protect our borders, care for our veterans, and serve our communities — are forced to pay the price. The IAM Union strongly supports the Federal Employees Civil Relief Act because no federal employee or contractor should face eviction, foreclosure, or financial ruin for simply doing their jobs. We thank Representatives Boyle and Randall, and Senator Schatz, for standing up for the dignity and security of working people who deserve protection from political brinkmanship.”
The IAM Union represents over 100,000 federal employees and federal service contract workers in the United States. These workers perform tasks such as maintaining military aircraft, operating national parks, and providing essential public services. The union has regularly advocated for fair treatment and financial stability for these employees during lapses in government funding.
The Federal Employees Civil Relief Act is modeled after protections offered to military service members through the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. It would pause financial obligations and civil proceedings during a government shutdown and for 30 days after it ends, providing additional security for affected workers.
