WASHINGTON—The Defense Credit Union Council Tuesday convened an “urgent” industry-wide call to address a growing push to attach unrelated and potentially damaging amendments, including the controversial Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA), to the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The meeting brought together credit union leaders, advocates, and industry partners to assess a wave of proposed amendments, many of which would impose additional regulatory burdens on defense credit unions or have no clear connection to national defense.
“DCUC and America’s Credit Unions have consistently advocated for a clean NDAA—free from unrelated and potentially harmful provisions. However, we are aware of efforts within the industry to advance a broad list of amendments,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO. “Many of these proposals directly affect credit unions serving on military bases. Our member credit unions have not asked for these amendments which is exactly why a broader discussion is needed.
“When it comes to national defense legislation, we must be strategic, united, and remain focused on priorities that are most important and impactful for our military communities,” Hernandez reminded.
During the meeting, DCUC stressed its concerns about the potential inclusion of the CCCA in the FY2026 NDAA, and called attention to other amendments or priorities.
"While we support ideas to promote industry priorities, DCUC believes coordination among credit union advocates is key before proposing any amendments in any ‘must-pass’ legislation such as the NDAA,” said Hernandez. “DCUC continues to uphold an open-door policy, engaging as an equal partner in all advocacy efforts. We value this opportunity to stand alongside our fellow trade associations, leagues, and business partners to protect the interests of our members and the broader credit union community."
“Our industry’s advocacy is most effective and impactful when we work together. We must protect our ability to serve military and veteran members by keeping defense legislation focused on defense, not weighed down or muddied by unrelated policy fights,” added Jason Stverak, DCUC chief advocacy officer. “In doing so, we ensure Congress continues to recognize the critical value credit unions provide to both military and underserved communities.”
Congress is expected to resume NDAA action immediately after its August recess.
ACU addressed the NDAA in a statement from Chief Advocacy Officer Carrie Hunt.
“America’s Credit Unions, in close collaboration with our league partners, continues to actively pursue every available legislative opportunity to advance credit union–specific priorities,” said Hunt. “Together, we strategically engage with fellow industry allies—such as the Defense Credit Union Council —to identify and leverage potential pathways, including the National Defense Authorization Act, to achieve meaningful legislative wins for credit unions nationwide. This united front ensures that our collective voice is both amplified and effective in securing policies that strengthen and protect the credit union movement.”