Federal employees and federal contract workers are facing the possibility of a government shutdown on October 1, 2025. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has expressed concern about the impact this could have on its members and other affected workers.
In a message to its members, the IAM called for bipartisan cooperation in Congress to avoid a shutdown. “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.”
The union represents more than 110,000 federal workers across the country through both the IAM and its affiliate, the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM). The statement highlighted that many union members experienced financial hardship during previous shutdowns. In particular, over one million federal contract workers went without pay during the 35-day government shutdown in early 2019.
To address these issues, the IAM is supporting legislation in Congress known as the Fair Pay for Federal Contractors Act. This bill is led by Senators Tina Smith, Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Chris Van Hollen, and Angela Alsobrooks. If passed, it would ensure that contract workers receive compensation for lost wages during any future government shutdowns.
The IAM advised its members to continue reporting to work unless they receive an official furlough notice and encouraged them to stay informed through union communications. The organization also provided links to resources such as guidance on furloughs and unemployment insurance information.
“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,” concluded the message from IAM leadership.
