WASHINGTON--Monday the Defense Credit Union Council provided an official Statement for the Record ahead of the House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Defense hearing on the Department of War’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget request and military financial readiness priorities.
In its statement, DCUC encouraged lawmakers to continue recognizing financial readiness as a core component of military readiness and quality of life for servicemembers and their families. DCUC called for greater oversight and transparency regarding access to on-base financial services, overseas military banking operations, and barriers preventing qualified credit unions from participating in financial education and counseling programs on military installations.
“DCUC respectfully urges the Subcommittee to continue treating military financial services as a defense-readiness and quality-of-life issue, not as a peripheral banking matter,” wrote Jason Stverak, DCUC chief advocacy officer.
DCUC also highlighted several bipartisan policy priorities supporting military and veteran communities, including enhanced access to capital for veteran entrepreneurs, permanent Central Liquidity Facility (CLF) enhancements, housing and mortgage flexibility, and permanent pay protections for Department of War and Coast Guard personnel during government shutdowns.
“Financial readiness is mission readiness, and that starts with ensuring servicemembers and their families have access to reliable, community-focused financial institutions they can trust,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO, ret. USAF colonel. “Defense credit unions understand the unique challenges military families face and remain committed to providing the support and stability they need at every stage of service.”