House Approves Bill Restoring Federal Employees’ Collective Bargaining Rights

The House of Representatives approved a significant bill aimed at reinstating collective bargaining rights for federal employees. This legislation, known as the Protect America’s Workforce Act, passed with a vote of 231 to 195. The support came from the entire Democratic Caucus, along with 20 Republican members.

Context of the Bill

This week’s vote follows a remarkable achievement where a discharge petition garnered the necessary 218 signatures in November. This petition mandated the House to hold a floor vote on the bill. On Wednesday, the bill overcame an initial voting challenge, paving the way for final approval on Thursday.

Key Provisions

Led by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Jared Golden (D-Maine), the Protect America’s Workforce Act seeks to nullify two executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump. These orders prompted most federal agencies to terminate union contracts. If enacted, the bill would restore collective bargaining rights to tens of thousands of federal workers.

Statements from Lawmakers

• Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), a ranking member of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, emphasized the bill’s bipartisan nature.
• He highlighted the importance of collective bargaining for essential workers, including nurses and firefighters.
• Opposition from Republican lawmakers centered around concerns that the bill undermines efforts to manage the federal workforce effectively.

The Impact of Trump’s Executive Orders

In March, Trump directed most agencies to cancel their agreements with federal unions, justifying this measure by citing national security. A second order in August further expanded the scope of agencies prohibited from bargaining with unions. The implications of these actions impact about two-thirds of the federal workforce.

Legal Challenges

Federal unions have contested Trump’s executive orders, claiming they are illegal. A coalition led by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) sued the administration earlier this year, arguing that many affected agencies do not primarily concern national security. A federal judge initially blocked the enforcement of the executive orders in April, but this decision was later reversed, allowing agencies to proceed with disbanding union recognition.

Reactions to the Bill’s Passage

Following the House’s decision, various federal unions expressed their satisfaction. Randy Erwin, the national president of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), praised the bipartisan support for the bill. He described the passage as a significant step in defending the rights of federal employees against previous attacks.

Next Steps

Despite its success in the House, the Protect America’s Workforce Act must now secure Senate approval. The corresponding bill in the Senate was first introduced in September by Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) and has one Republican co-sponsor, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

AFGE National President Everett Kelley called for prompt action in the Senate, emphasizing the need to protect collective bargaining rights in forthcoming budget bills. This legislative effort continues to highlight the crucial role of federal employees in supporting government functions.