Sen. Warner Introduces Bill to Restore Federal Workers' Bargaining Rights

Legislation Aims to Reinstate Collective Bargaining for Federal Workers

In a significant move to empower federal employees, Virginia Senator Mark Warner has proposed a bill that seeks to reinstate the collective bargaining rights of federal workers. This initiative is backed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

The bill, known as The Protect America’s Workforce Act, was introduced on Wednesday. It aims to counteract a March executive order from President Donald Trump, which removed collective bargaining rights from a significant number of federal employees.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders expressed support for the legislation, stating, "Federal workers are essential to our nation's health and well-being, and when they have the freedom to collectively bargain for safe working conditions and strong public services, we all benefit." He also emphasized the need for the Senate to act quickly in passing the bill.

Federal employees, including those represented by AFSCME, play a critical role in maintaining the country's infrastructure. The loss of their collective bargaining rights has been viewed as a shift favoring affluent interests over working families.

The proposed legislation by Senator Warner, which has garnered bipartisan support, complements a similar measure introduced by Maine Representative Jared Golden in the House. This House bill has already attracted 223 co-sponsors, reflecting broad support.

Senator Warner remarked, "From the gutting of essential government agencies to the politization of nonpartisan government jobs, there’s never been a tougher time to be a federal worker. As the Trump administration continues to terrorize the federal workforce, I’m proud to introduce legislation to safeguard the longstanding protections that federal employees need right now."

Supporters of the bill are encouraged to reach out to their senators, regardless of party affiliation, to express their backing of this critical legislation and to oppose efforts to undermine union rights.