The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a significant bill aimed at restoring union rights for federal employees. The vote was 222-200 in favor of Congressman Jared Golden’s Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA). This legislation seeks to overturn a previous executive order that limited the collective bargaining rights of about 1 million federal workers.
Tonight’s vote followed months of effort from Golden and his GOP colleague, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who helped rally bipartisan support. Together, they secured 226 cosponsors for the bill and initiated a discharge petition to force the vote.
Golden highlighted the importance of this legislation, especially in his district, where many affected workers are involved in crucial national defense roles. “America did not vote to silence these workers,” he stated. He hopes this bill will amplify workers’ voices. Fitzpatrick echoed that sentiment, reinforcing that protecting worker rights and national security are essential and complementary.
Golden and Fitzpatrick introduced PAWA earlier this year and faced challenges bringing it to the floor. The discharge petition gathered enough signatures to bypass objections, allowing the House to vote on it.
Prominent organizations, including the AFL-CIO and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), support the bill. AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler praised the unity shown in bringing the bill forward, emphasizing the need for workers to have their rights restored amidst increasing challenges.
Historically, federal workers have seen their bargaining rights limited compared to those in the private sector, where collective bargaining is more robust. Under the 2018 executive order by President Trump, many employees in defense and veterans’ affairs were particularly affected. If PAWA becomes law, it would not only repeal this order but also safeguard existing union contracts.
Research indicates that approximately one-third of federal workers in unions are veterans, highlighting the connection between military service and the workforce. Restoring these rights would empower a significant number of individuals who contribute to the nation’s security and services.
In summary, the progress seen with PAWA reflects a growing bipartisan commitment to enhancing worker protections, with numerous organizations advocating for a stable federal workforce. The final vote on PAWA is expected soon, promising potential changes that could strengthen worker rights across the country.
For more detailed information about the bill, check out the official Congress.gov page.
