Matt Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential impact of proposed federal workforce cuts, the implications of ongoing tax cut debates and the challenges surrounding immigration judges under current policies.
The federal workforce is under significant threat as proposed budget cuts aim to slash government services and reduce the number of federal employees. Biggs discussed the administration's push for a $4.7 trillion tax cut, primarily benefiting billionaires and large corporations, at the expense of essential government services and jobs. He emphasized the need for unions to push back against these cuts, which would severely impact federal employee pensions and freeze pay, further straining the workforce.
Tax cuts remain a contentious issue, with the potential renewal of the 2017 tax reform provisions looming. Biggs pointed out that these cuts disproportionately favor the wealthy, while essential programs like Medicaid face potential reductions. He noted that some Republicans might be open to raising the top income tax rate, but stressed that more comprehensive reforms are needed to address corporate tax dodging and ensure a fairer system for all workers.
Immigration judges, represented by the IFPTE, face unique challenges as the administration attempts to strip them of collective bargaining rights. Despite losing these rights, the union has maintained its strength through educational outreach, which has helped increase membership. Biggs underscored the importance of due process for immigrants and warned that the erosion of these rights could set a dangerous precedent for broader civil liberties.
Listen to the full episode to explore these critical issues and their implications for workers nationwide.