The International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) has issued a statement in response to an Executive Order signed by President Donald J. Trump. This Executive Order, cited by the White House on March 27, 2025, utilizes authority from the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 to terminate collective bargaining with federal unions.
The BAC emphasized the importance of collective bargaining, describing it as a fundamental right for workers. The union highlighted the long-standing tradition of federal recognition for this right, noting that both Republican and Democratic administrations have upheld collective bargaining agreements with various unions representing millions of public servants.
Unionized federal workers have contributed significantly to the nation, from participating in space exploration to managing disaster response efforts. The BAC argues that their ability to negotiate employment conditions has not impeded their duties. Instead, the organization maintains that collective bargaining has been beneficial in resolving conflicts efficiently, reducing litigation, enhancing federal employee retention, and boosting morale. These outcomes, the BAC asserts, have enhanced the professionalism and productivity of government services.
BAC President Timothy Driscoll expressed the union’s intention to challenge President Trump’s order in the courts. “President Trump’s order purporting to end collective bargaining rights for over one million federal employees will be challenged in the courts, and BAC trusts that justice will be done,” Driscoll stated.
The BAC also conveyed solidarity with federal workers, reaffirming its commitment to defending the right to unionize. “In the meantime, we stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who go to work each day to ensure that our government works for us,” President Driscoll added. “The right to join a union and bargain collectively is one shared by all workers, regardless of their employer – and BAC will fight alongside the rest of the labor movement to ensure that every working American has that right.”
