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 in the Senate sponsored by Brian Schatz, aims to protect federal employees and contractors from financial difficulties during government shutdowns or breaches of the federal debt limit.
The proposed law would temporarily suspend certain civil liabilities for affected workers, including rent, mortgage payments, student loans, and tax obligations. It also seeks to prevent eviction, foreclosure, credit penalties, and loss of insurance coverage for those furloughed or required to work without pay.
IAM Union International President Brian Bryant 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 service contract workers across the United States in roles such as maintaining military aircraft, operating national parks, and providing essential public services. The union has a history of advocating for fair treatment and financial stability for these workers during periods when government funding lapses.
The Federal Employees Civil Relief Act is modeled after the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, which offers similar protections to military personnel. The new legislation would pause financial obligations and civil proceedings during a shutdown and for 30 days after it ends.
