IFPTE Endorses Claire Valdez for the 7th Congressional District of New York
IFPTE issued its latest Congressional endorsement for the upcoming midterms by backing New York Assemblymember, Claire Valdez, for the House of Representatives. In issuing the endorsement, IFPTE called Valdez, who is a Union organizer, “a champion for working families and their Unions”.
Calling All Candidates – Join IFPTE’s Black and Racialized Professionals Committee
The Committee, which was unanimously approved at the 2024 IFPTE Convention through passage of Resolution 15, titled “Black and Racialized Professionals Committee,” is tasked with advancing and advocating for “issues faced in the union, the workplace, and the communities where we live.”
IFPTE Honors Black History Month
Labour College of Canada Applications
Applications for the Canadian Labour Congress’ Labour College of Canada leadership certificate program are open until March 16. The Labour College Certificate Program offers in-depth, university level courses and a unique learning opportunity for union leaders and active members from across unions and regions to learn and grow together. Learn more here.
Department for Professional Employees Reports Union Membership and Density Among Professionals Grew Again in 2025
The AFL-CIO’s Department for Professional Employee (DPE), or which IFPTE is an affiliate, reported this week that nearly 170,000 professionals joined unions in 2025, pushing total professional union membership to more than 6.6 million, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ annual union membership report. Read more here.
OFL Union Threads: A Craft-In for Women’s Power
On March 6, the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) is celebrating International Women’s Day with women from across Ontario at a hybrid craft‑in rooted in the long tradition of women gathering to create, strategize, and build power together. Register here.
SAVE THE DATE!!! IFPTE 62nd Convention Toronto, ON, Canada July 19-22, 2027
IFPTE, AFL-CIO and CLC Issue Statements Honoring Black History Month
IFPTE released a statement on February 1st honoring Black History Month, stating that, “Sadly, the hard-fought rights that were achieved by the Civil Rights and Labor Movements decades ago are being eroded and outright eliminated by not only the most powerful politicians in our society, but also our courts…This year’s Black History Month is as important as it has ever been, and is a time for those of us in the Labor Movement to reinforce and recommit to fighting to reverse these attacks.”
IFPTE Commits to Halting Schedule P/C Which Seeks to Undermine Merit-Based Nonpartisan Civil Service and Government for the People
In response to the Office of Personnel Management issuing the Schedule P/C final rule, IFPTE President Matt Biggs commented that Schedule P/C “jeopardizes the stability and effectiveness of the federal agencies the public depends on every day and undermines the data and evidence-based missions that federal employees perform. It would also undermine Congress’s ability to perform meaningful oversight by silencing the expertise of federal employees. IFPTE is committed to opposing its implementation in federal court and advocating for the enactment of the Saving the Civil Service Act.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Applauds the Launch of the Bipartisan Federal Workforce Caucus and Calls on Members of Congress from Both Sides of the Aisle to Stand Up for America’s Civil Service Workforce
This week, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-MD), and Congressman James Walkinshaw (D-VA) launched the Federal Workforce Caucus, a Congressional caucus committed to protecting and strengthening America’s civil service workforce. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Partial Government Shutdown Short-livered – IFPTE Requests the House Pass Five FY26 Appropriations Bills and Ensure Administration Respects the Law and Constitution
The House came back to Washington on Monday and voted on Tuesday to end the four-day partial government shutdown. In a letter to House lawmakers before Tuesday’s vote, IFPTE wrote that, “We urge you not to hold five appropriations bills from enactment while Congress and the American public seek to ensure accountability, oversight, and justice for overbroad DHS immigration enforcement operations that have resulted in too many tragic outcomes. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Layoffs Averted for Members of TEAM/IFPTE Local 161
Members of TEAM/IFPTE Local 161 can breathe a sigh of relief, with Bell Canada announcing this week that its plans to eliminate 46 more jobs from the bargaining unit have been cancelled. Bell did not provide a reason to the union for cancelling the downsizing, nor did it confirm whether more job cuts are planned for later this year, although some TEAM members fear that may be the case. But for now, at least, layoffs have been averted. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Union Says Boeing Violated Contract; Seeks ‘No Layoff’ Guarantee for 787 Engineers
“SPEEA and Boeing had a meeting of our Joint Workforce Committee on Thursday, January 29th,” said SPEEA executive director Ray Goforth. “The committee’s purpose is for Boeing to provide SPEEA with guidance on how company decisions impact our membership, including any possible work movement. At that meeting, Boeing informed SPEEA that there were no company decisions in the foreseeable future that would impact work statement or employment levels for SPEEA members. “Thus, it was with great surprise and disappointment that Boeing unilaterally announced to our members the very next morning that the remaining 787 engineering work would be moved to South Carolina,” Goforth said. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Society Applauds Completion of Darlington Nuclear Reactor Refurbishment
This week, the Society of United Professionals/IFPTE Local 160 President, Rebecca Caron, was present for the Ontario government’s announcement of the successful completion of the refurbishment of the Darlington Unit 4 nuclear reactor, which will return to service four months ahead of schedule and $150 million under budget. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Calling All Candidates – Join IFPTE’s Black and Racialized Professionals Committee
The Committee, which was unanimously approved at the 2024 IFPTE Convention through passage of Resolution 15, titled “Black and Racialized Professionals Committee,” is tasked with advancing and advocating for “issues faced in the union, the workplace, and the communities where we live.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Canada’s Unions Say Workers Must Be At the Centre of National Trade Strategy
Canadian labour leaders from the private and public sector met in Ottawa this week to demand an end to trade policies that put corporate interests ahead of workers, and to call for a worker-centered trade and economic strategy and a seat at the decision-making table. Read more from the CLC here, and from Yahoo News here.
Registration for IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is still open; late fees apply. The deadline for booking sleeping rooms has closed; however, rooms may still be available but not at IFPTE’s rate. Contact crhett@ifpte.org if you need assistance. Conference information can be found here.
SAVE THE DATE!!! IFPTE 62nd Convention Toronto, ON, Canada July 19-22, 2027
Short Partial Government Shutdown Expected for DOD, SSA, MSPB – No Shutdown for USACE, NASA, EPA, NOAA, DOE, Leg. Branch
Starting at 12:01 am EST on Saturday, January 31, the U.S. federal government will be in a partial government shutdown. The partial shutdown will affect the following agencies where IFPTE members work: Department of the Navy, Department of the Army (but not USACE), Defense Logistics Agency, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, SSA, and the MSPB. The following agencies where IFPTE members work will not be affected: USACE, NASA, NOAA, DOJ, EPA, DOE, and DOI. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Tells Senate Leadership to Pass Funding Bills That Have Bipartisan Support, Hold Homeland Security Funding Until Needed Oversight is Included
With the Senate Republican Leadership looking to advance a package of six appropriations bills that will not get bipartisan support due to the inclusion of Homeland Security funding, IFPTE sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) requesting they pass the five funding bills with bipartisan support and hold back the Homeland Security funding bill, which lacks the bipartisan support needed to pass the Senate. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Funding ICE While Allowing DOD, Other Funding to Lapse? IFPTE Urges Senate to Avoid Partial Government Shutdown by Not Holding “Five Appropriations Bills Hostage”
As the clock ticks towards a partial government shutdown on January 30, IFPTE urged Senate leaders to follow the House’s lead “by separating those five appropriations bills from the FY26 Homeland Security appropriations bill.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Calling All Candidates – Join IFPTE’s Black and Racialized Professionals Committee
The Committee, which was unanimously approved at the 2024 IFPTE Convention through passage of Resolution 15, titled “Black and Racialized Professionals Committee,” is tasked with advancing and advocating for “issues faced in the union, the workplace, and the communities where we live.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Endorses New Jersey Congressman Donald Norcross for Re-election
On behalf of its 90,000 members throughout North America, including more than 10,000 IFPTE members throughout New Jersey, IFPTE is proud to endorse Congressman Donald Norcross for a 7th term representing the First Congressional District of New Jersey. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
NPEU/IFPTE Local 70 Officers Condemn ICE, Stand with Minnesota
“By standing in solidarity with the people of Minnesota, we affirm that working people will not be silent in the face of oppression. As we continue into 2026, we encourage all members to take action alongside other people of conscience, take care of yourselves, and take care of each other.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Cross-border Solidarity: OFL Backs Minnesota AFL-CIO in Anti-ICE Mobilization
OFL President Laura Walton met with Minnesota AFL-CIO leadership to coordinate strategy and encouraged workers in Ontario to show visible support for their counterparts by taking symbolic actions and amplifying the call: “Solidarity has no borders — ICE out of Minnesota!” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE is once again a partner for the NO KINGS event on March 28. The mass mobilization is a continued response to Trump’s authoritarian administration, protecting our democracy and elections, and to respond to ICE in Minnesota and nationwide. Join the Eyes on ICE virtual training on February 5 and be part of the movement!
Registration for IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is still open; late fees will apply after Sunday, January 25. The deadline for booking sleeping rooms has closed; however, rooms may still be available but not at IFPTE’s rate. Contact crhett@ifpte.org if you need assistance. Conference information can be found here.
SAVE THE DATE!!! IFPTE 62nd Convention Toronto, ON, Canada July 19-22, 2027
IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is still open. Registration fees will increase on January 25. The deadline for booking sleeping rooms closed today. Rooms may still be available but not at IFPTE’s rate. Contact crhett@ifpte.org if you need assistance. Conference information can be found here. Space is limited – register today!
Congress Passes Appropriations Package to Sustain Funding for NASA, NOAA Fisheries, Army Corps Civil Works, and EPA
Congress rejected the the destructive Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget cuts sought by the Trump Administration by passing a package of bipartisan appropriations bills, referred to as a “minibus,.” This funding package covers agencies that are funded by the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) appropriations bill, the Energy and Water Development (EWD) appropriations bill, and the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies (IE) appropriations bill.
SPEEA Reaches Tentative Agreement with Boeing in Wichita
SPEEA’s WTPU unit in Wichita has reached a tentative agreement with Boeing on a new collective bargaining agreement. The negotiation team is unanimously recommending that union members approve the offer. Boeing’s offer “gives us better medical benefits, better dental benefits, more vacation time and a decent set of salary pools for raises,” said James Hatfield, who chaired the union’s negotiation team. “We will be joining other unions and Boeing non-union employees in enjoying the Boeing benefits; that’s why I would vote for approving this contract.”
“Standing Together Makes Us Stronger!” – IFPTE Joins Kansas AFL-CIO Leaders and Members of Topeka for Solidarity Day
President Biggs and Secretary-Treasurer Henson, along with SPEEA Area Vice President Matthew Joyce and former longtime SPEEA Area Vice President Donna Lehane, joined hundreds of Union members for a rally this week in Topeka in support of working families and against both statewide and national attacks on working families. The rally took place at the state capitol and preceded hundreds of visits by Union members with state lawmakers
Calling All Candidates – Join IFPTE’s Black and Racialized Professionals Committee
As we plan to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 19th, as well as recognize Black History Month this February, IFPTE is standing up the Black and Racialized Professionals Committee. The Committee, which was unanimously approved at the 2024 IFPTE Convention through passage of Resolution 15, titled “Black and Racialized Professionals Committee,” is tasked with advancing and advocating for “issues faced in the union, the workplace, and the communities where we live.”
LEAF Employees Vote Unanimously to Join Society of United Professionals
Employees of the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF) have unanimously voted to join the Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160). The newly certified bargaining unit includes all employees, including lawyers
Steve Pinto Takes the Helm at IFPTE Local 195 – Sworn in as President
IFPTE Atlantic Area Vice President, Brother Steve Pinto, was officially sworn in as President of IFPTE Local 195 on Thursday. Joining President Pinto was Brother Melvin Dwyer to serve a second term as Local 195 Vice President, along with ten other Local 195 officers. IFPTE Atlantic Area Vice President/Local 196 President, Sean McBride, administered the oath of office, and upwards of fifty IFPTE members, staff, and retirees attended, including Local 195 President-Emeritus, Don Buchanan, and IFPTE International Representative, David LaFemina.
Pass the Protecting America’s Workforce Act (PAWA) Now! IFPTE Joins Rally on Capitol Hill
IFPTE members and staff attended the “Rally for America’s Workforce: PAWA to the People” on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. The rally, which was organized by the Federal Unionist Network (FUN) and sponsored by IFPTE, along with AFGE, NFFE, NTEU and many other Unions representing federal workers, was laser focused on demanding that the Senate immediately pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA), either as a free-standing bill as the House had done in December, or as a part of the appropriations process.
SAVE THE DATE!!! IFPTE 62nd Convention Toronto, ON, Canada July 19-22, 2027
Canada’s unions are sending a clear and urgent message to the federal government ahead of the 2026 review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA): workers must come first.
IFPTE is honored to cosponsor the Rally for America’s Workforce: PAWA to the People on January 14th at 12 pm at Upper Senate Park in Washington, DC. The rally is in support of the Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA), a bill to undo President Trump’s union-busting Executive Order 14251 that has attempted to end collective bargaining for 85% of the unionized federal workforce. Join us for the rally!
Registration for IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is open! Rooms are still available–the deadline to secure sleeping rooms is Friday, January 16. Participants are encouraged to book their rooms. Conference information can be found here. Space is limited – register today!
IFPTE Tells Congress to Contain Health Insurance Costs and Pass Bipartisan Bill to Extend ACA Tax Credits
Ahead of the House of Representative’s vote on H.R. 1834, a bipartisan three-year extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, which expired at the end of 2025, IFPTE called on lawmakers to pass the bill to prevent some 5 million Americans from being uninsured and raising costs of health care for ACA policy holders and all people in the U.S. health care system. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Bell Canada Continues to Target TEAM Jobs for Layoffs
Earlier this week, Bell initiated another round of workforce reductions impacting TEAM Local 161 members. These cuts will result in the loss of at least 46 jobs from the TEAM bargaining unit and have significant implications for both the employees directly affected and those who remain. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
House of Representatives Passes FY26 Funding for NASA, Army Corps, EPA, NOAA and Immigration Courts, Rejects Trump Administration’s Extreme Budget Cuts
On Thursday, an overwhelming bipartisan majority in the U.S. House of Representatives passed a “minibus” legislative package that includes three Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills that reject the extreme cuts in the Trump Administration’s budget. The bill is accompanied by directions to federal agencies in the “joint explanatory statement” that reflects several IFPTE priorities. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Union Council 8 Brings Holiday Cheer to Children and Families in Union County, New Jersey
IFPTE Union Council 8 teamed up with the United Way of Greater Union County, the City of Elizabeth, New Jersey, and Phillips 66 in support of a toy distribution to serve children and families in Union County, New Jersey, during the Holiday Season. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Calls on U.S. Government to “Return to its Longstanding Roles as a Constructive Global Partner–One that Prioritizes Peace, Stability, and the Shared Interests of Working People Everywhere”
IFPTE Honors Brother George Gammad, President Emeritus of Local 777, for Over 35 Years of Service to the United States Army Corps of Engineers
IFPTE is proud to salute and honor Brother George Gammad as he retires this week from federal government service. George was a founding member of Local 99 (which later merged into Local 777) at the Army Corps of Engineers, and served as the President of Local 99 for more than two decades. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Responds to NASA Administrator Isaacman’s Misleading and Midguided Explanation for Closing NASA’s Largest Research Library
“I want to chalk up NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman misguided explanation for the closing of NASA’s research library at the Goddard Space Center to his being new to the job and to the poor advice that he has received from his staff. His public statement regarding the library, released on X, is patently false and must be challenged.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
SAVE THE DATE!!! IFPTE 62nd Convention Toronto, ON, Canada July 19-22, 2027
In its recent report, Living the High Life: A Record-Breaking Year for CEO Pay in Canada, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) reveals that pay for Canada’s 100 top-earning CEOs climbed to record levels in 2024, averaging $16.2 million and further accelerating the growing gap between executive compensation and what most workers earn.
Registration for the Manitoba Federation of Labour Health and Safety Conference is open. The conference runs from Feb 5-6 and provides worker-focused education and tools for union activists to help them be more effective health and safety committee members and advocates for health and safety in the workplace.
Registration for IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is now open! Participants are encouraged to book their rooms. Conference information can be found here. Space is limited – register today!
IFPTE Urges Senate to Follow House’s Lead and Pass PAWA as Part of the Appropriations Process
After the successful effort to pass the bipartisan Protect America’s Workforce Act (PAWA) in the House last week, IFPTE turned its sights this week to the United States Senate where the Union urged Senate Appropriations Committee Chair, Susan Collins, and Vice Chair, Patty Murray, to add PAWA to the remaining Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Senate funding bills. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
SPEEA Agrees to Boeing Request to Pause WTPU Talks
SPEEA has agreed to Boeing’s request to pause negotiations on a new contract for the more than 1,500 workers represented by its Wichita Technical & Professional Unit. Boeing asked for the delay Wednesday, citing complications related to the reunification of the newly reacquired Spirit AeroSystems operation with the rest of the Boeing enterprise. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE wishes all our members and their families a happy and safe Holiday Season. The IFPTE Weekly Recap will be back in force next year, starting on January 9, 2026.
Registration for IFPTE’s 2026 Legislative Conference is now open! Participants are encouraged to book their rooms. Conference information can be found here. Space is limited – register today!
New Jersey Congressman Donald Norcross Joins Federal Caucus Monthly Meeting
As a part of IFPTE’s Federal Caucus Zoom meeting held today, IFPTE hosted New Jersey Congressman Donald Norcross to address IFPTE’s federal membership and the larger membership overall. The webinar included a legislative and legal update, followed by Congressman Norcross’s update to IFPTE’s members on his work on Capitol Hill against President Trump’s union-busting agenda. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
House Passes Bipartisan Protecting America’s Workforce Act in Support of Federal Employee Collective Bargaining Rights
While Republican Congressional leaders were using their majority to scuttle NDAA language rejecting President Trump’s Union-busting, a bipartisan bill in the House lead by Maine Democratic Congressman, Jared Golden, and Pennsylvania Republican Congressman, Brian Fitzpatrick, was easily approved on Friday in the House. The legislation, dubbed the Protecting America’s Workforce Act, would repeal the first executive order Trump signed that eliminated collective bargaining rights for over 1 million federal employees. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Continues Fight for Federal Workers’ Union Rights Despite Setback with House Passage of NDAA
After months of working to protect New Jersey Congressman Donald Norcross’ bipartisan language included in the House passed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congressional leaders this week approved a final NDAA that failed to include Section 1110 of the House NDAA, which would have defunded President Trump’s Union-busting executive order by restoring collective bargaining rights for DOD federal workers. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Joins SUP Local 160 Rally to Support Hydro One Members
The Society of United Professionals/IFPTE Local 160’s Hydro One Local held a rally on Monday at Trinity Square in Toronto. IFPTE President Matt Biggs and Secretary-Treasurer Gay Henson joined members on the ground, demanding a fair contract and reaffirming the International’s full support. More than 2,100 Local 160 members at Hydro One have been without a collective agreement since October 1, 2025. After five months at the bargaining table, the employer has still not presented an offer that reflects the vital contributions of Society members who maintain, operate, and safeguard the reliability of Ontario’s electricity system. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Society of United Professionals/IFPTE Local 160 Hosts Empowerment Conference and Council
Nearly 200 members from across Ontario and Saskatchewan gathered in Toronto on December 6 for the Society of United Professionals/IFPTE Local 160’s annual Empowerment Conference. This year’s theme, Leadership Interventions, brought together a dynamic lineup of speakers who explored how equity at every level of the union can drive meaningful change within the union and across the broader labour movement. The conference also provided an important space to celebrate the tremendous work of the Society’s Equity Committees. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Attends Labor Event in Support of Endorsed Senate Candidate Graham Platner
IFPTE Secretary-Treasurer, Gay Henson, was joined by Legislative/Political Director, Faraz Khan and Assistant to the Executive Officers, Brian Kildee, this week for a labor sponsored event in support Maine Senate candidate, Graham Platner. Secretary-Treasurer Henson commented, saying that, “this event, with was an opportunity to reinforce our support for Platner, who is unapologetically pro-Union, pro-collective bargaining, and pro-IFPTE.”
Federal Workers Unions Urge Senate and House Leadership to Protect Union Rights for DOD Workers
As the leadership of the House and Senate settle all remaining issues between the respective chambers’ National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bills, IFPTE joined with the Federal Workers Alliance unions to send a letter to Congress urging that the final NDAA text include language to protect the collective bargaining rights of Department of Defense (DOD) workers. TAKE ACTION: Congressional Leadership Must Protect DOD Workers Union Rights in Final NDAA
SUP Local 160 Joins Ontario Minister of Energy’s Press Conference
The Ontario government announced that it has approved OPG’s plan to refurbish Pickering B Units 5, 6, 7, and 8 – four CANDU nuclear reactors at the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. This is a major milestone for the nuclear sector in Pickering, and an important step in advancing our climate goals through investments in clean, reliable energy. Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160) President Rebecca Caron spoke at the government’s press conference. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
House Oversight Committee Takes Aim at Official Time, Considers Other Troubling Federal Employee Related Bills
IFPTE weighed in this week on several bills impacting federal workers and their Unions that were considered by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. The series of bills, most sponsored by Republican House lawmakers, included a bill targeting official time for representational purposes and a bill to extend probationary periods for most federal workers to two years. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
“Organizing is Our Lifeblood” – SPEEA/Local 2001 WTPU Organizing Campaign Results in Huge Membership Increases
SPEEA/IFPTE Local 2001’s Wichita Technical and Professional Unit (WTPU) Contact Action Team, tasked with increasing WTPU membership through internal organizing, successfully surpassed the 50% mark this week, up from 28% before the campaign launched. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
UNION STRONG – Pressure to Get DOD to ‘Do the Right Thing’ on Wage Grade Raises Works – DOD Wage Committee Reinstated and Worker Raises Implemented
Despite the actions of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to cancel the DOD wage survey committee, IFPTE learned last week that pressure from labor, including IFPTE, and Congress, most notably Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman and the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee (HSGAC) staff, wage-grade workers employed by DOD will finally receive their long-awaited raises. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) 18th Biennial Convention Recap
At the Ontario Federation of Labour’s 18th Biennial Convention, the Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160) were well represented at the convention with over 30 delegates. As well, Society delegate Morgan Koch was elected as the OFL Pride and Solidarity Chair and was awarded the OFL Solidarity and Pride Champion Award. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Delegates Elected at 23rd Biennial CLUW Convention
The Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) gathered for its 23rd Biennial Convention in San Diego, California, from November 9-11, 2025. This year’s theme, “Women Around the World Unite,” brought together over 400 passionate women who came to celebrate and engage with the important work of CLUW. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
LABOUR NEWS December 5, 2025
Win for Workers – Manitoba Government Announces New Rules to Protect Workers from Asbestos
Manitoba Minister of Labour Malaya Marcelino announced major new workplace health and safety rules that will literally save lives. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Federal Funding Cuts Threaten Chicago Harbor Lock, One of the Nation’s Busiest
Faraz Khan, legislative director for the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, a union representing 5,500 Army Corps workers around the country — including those who staff the Chicago Harbor Lock — said it wasn’t clear to the union whether the proposed cuts to the harbor funding were politically motivated. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Talks Government Shutdown, Trump Union-busting on America’s Workforce Union Podcast
President Matt Biggs joined legendary radio host, Ed ‘Flash’ Ferenc on America’s Workforce Union podcast to discuss IFPTEs views on the ongoing government shutdown/lockout, and efforts to combat the Trump Administration’s unprecedented Union-busting. Listen to the podcast.
Federal Employee Unions Win Extension of Order Barring Trump Administration’s Illegal Shutdown Firings
A federal court has extended its order barring the Trump administration from firing federal workers because of the government shutdown as litigation filed by labor unions proceeds. Judge Illston granted the unions’ request for a preliminary injunction that will prevent the administration from issuing reductions-in-force or implementing those already filed during the shutdown. The injunction continues the temporary restraining order the judge previously issued.
Canada STRONG: IFPTE Urges Senate to Reject Trump Tariffs on Canada
IFPTE weighed in with Senate lawmakers this week, urging them to vote in support of bipartisan legislation condemning President Trump’s most recent attack on Canadian working families by imposing yet another tariff on goods and services. While asking Senators to support the legislation authored by Virginia Senator Tim Kaine and Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, IFPTE wrote that, “Imposing reckless tariffs on Canadian imports will harm both the U.S. and Canadian economies and do even greater harm to working families on both sides of the border. Congress must step in now to block this reckless and destructive policy.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
The Society’s Bruce Power Local Holds Annual Delegates Council
Leaders from the Society of United Professionals’ (SUP) Bruce Power Local met this week in Port Elgin, Ontario, as part of their annual Delegates Council. SUP Bruce Power Vice President, Dave Ceksters, chaired the day-long meeting, which focused on recently completed contract negotiations, internal membership engagement, and the Union’s work to support policies promoting public investments in new nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Applauds Republican House Letter in Support of DOD Worker Collective Bargaining Rights
IFPTE was pleased to see a letter authored by sixteen House Republicans calling on House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders to retain in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bipartisan legislative language sponsored by New Jersey Representative, Donald Norcross, to restore collective bargaining rights for DOD civilian workers. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Urges Congressional Leadership to Pass Honest CR that Protects Congressional Appropriations
IFPTE renewed the call for Congress to pass a bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to end the shutdown and fund the federal government. The letter reaffirmed IFPTE’s position that. “The common-sense path forward out of the current impasse is a truly clean CR that protects Congressionally approved spending levels and extends funding to provide time for Congress to pass full-year appropriations.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Joins Union to Request USDA Secretary Rollings Distribute SNAP Using Emergency Funds
With the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) about to expire for 42 million Americans on November 1, IFPTE joined the AFL-CIO’s union letter urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins to disburse SNAP emergency funding. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
LABOUR NEWS
Canada’s Unions Applaud Pre-Budget Measures that Put Workers at the Heart of Economic Growth
This week, the Canadian Labour Congress, and President Bea Bruske released a statement on behalf of Canada’s unions, welcoming pre-budget measures “that recognize the essential role of workers in building a stronger, fairer economy”.
November 1 – Join the AFL-CIO and #PostYourPremiumDay
Tomorrow, November 1, is #PostYourPremium Day. The US labor movement is encouraging folks to screenshot their premium increase and post it online to highlight the consequences of the administration’s failure to extend the ACA tax credits. Here’s the AFL-CIO’s mini-toolkit with directions for folks to participate.
“This joint action reaffirms two truths: that organized labor is leading the fight against the administration’s unprecedented and unlawful attack on federal workers’ rights, and that the more vicious and outrageous their attacks become, the stronger we stand in solidarity. Our opponents’ entire game plan is to divide, demoralize, and defeat us, but we will prevail by taking a stand in every venue available, including the courts,” said IFPTE President Matt Biggs. “We are honored to join with AFGE, AFSCME, NFFE, NAGE, SEIU, NTEU, and AFT, our union sisters and brothers, to challenge the illegal firings being implemented by OPM Director Vought, and we will not hesitate to use every resource to protect IFPTE members employed by the federal government.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Urges Senate to Support Van Hollen and Peters Bills Protecting All Federal Workers, Reject Sen. Johnson’s Competing ‘Divide and Conquer’ Approach
Before Thursday’s Senate vote, IFPTE penned a letter to Senators noting that, “While we applaud any Senator who wants to ensure that federal workers working during the shutdown are paid on time, we request that you support Sen. Van Hollen and Sen. Peters’ respective bills that improve the Shutdown Fairness Act. Sen. Johnson’s Shutdown Fairness Act overlooks the fact that this government shutdown, and those before it, have resulted in locking out hundreds of thousands of federal workers, far exceeding any lockout in any other sector of the U.S. economy.” Senator Johnson’s bill ultimately failed. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
SCMMA Local 222 Votes to Merge with the Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160)
SUP/IFPTE Local 160 was proud to welcome the Saskatoon Civic Middle Management Association (SCMMA Local 222), which represents 450 City of Saskatoon employees, to the SUP family. The merger vote passed overwhelmingly this week, with 93% of SCMMA members voting to join the Society. 82% of all SCMMA members cast a ballot, with voting conducted through secure online balloting. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Attends Senate Hearing on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Nominees
The hearing, which was held on Wednesday on Capitol Hill, focused on the views of the nominees with respect to honoring TVA union contracts and potential TVA privatization. Ahead of the hearing, Legislative Director Faraz Khan and Secretary-Treasurer Gay Henson, participated in several Senate Hill meetings warning against the dangers of privatization, something IFPTE is well-prepared to actively work against. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
Bail Reform Must Uphold Rights, Not Erode Them: SUP Letter to Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey
The Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160), representing approximately 400 Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) lawyers, weighed in with concerns of SUP members with the Ontario government’s repeated calls to further restrict access to bail for accused persons. In an October 14th letter to Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey, with a copy sent to Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Sean Fraser, SUP/IFPTE Local 160 President/Canadian Area Vice President, Rebecca Caron wrote that, “It is of utmost importance that the presumption of innocence be protected in the law of bail.” If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
“Rise Up, Fight Back” – Federal Worker Legal Defense Network Solidarity Docket Keeps Fed ‘In the Know’
Federal Workers Legal Defense Network General Counsel, Suzanne Summerlin, authored her latest “Solidarity Docket” this week, updating federal workers on the latest legal activity from the labor movement to combat the Trump Administration’s attacks on civil servants. If you would like to read the full story go to IFPTE.ORG
IFPTE Local 400 