On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed a reconciliation bill that initially contained provisions affecting federal workers and their unions. However, these provisions were removed from the final legislation with the assistance of labor allies and union members across the nation. The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) played a key role in this effort.
Several proposed policies by Republicans were not included in the final law. These proposals included requiring new federal hires to contribute significantly to FERS to retain civil service protections or become at-will employees, imposing a fee for claims or appeals with the Merit Systems Protection Board, altering pension calculations, taxing union dues payments, and allowing the President to reorganize the executive branch without congressional oversight for ten years.
NFFE is now turning its attention to potential threats through other legislative means such as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and fiscal year 2026 appropriations.
Randy Erwin, NFFE National President, commented on the outcome: “NFFE members and federal workers across the country were spared from the most extreme threats facing the civil service due to the tireless advocacy of union members, the labor movement, and our allies in Congress.” He also expressed concerns about other aspects of the legislation: “Millions of people will lose their healthcare, food assistance, or jobs as local economies are destroyed – all to deliver a nearly $5 trillion handout to the ultra-wealthy.”
The focus remains on standing in solidarity with working people to protect democracy and uphold American ideals.
