CHICAGO–Credit union representatives are on hand here this week for the 2016 Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures. CUNA, the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL), CUNA Mutual Group and the Illinois CU League are all being represented with messaging centered around raising the level of awareness for America’s credit unions and the difference they make in the lives of more than 100 million members. Credit unions have a booth as part of the show.
“The NCSL Legislative Summit provides credit unions with a tremendous opportunity to raise awareness of ‘America's Credit Unions’ before several thousand state legislators and policy makers,” said Tom Kane, president /CEO of the Illinois Credit Union League, in a statement. “As part of our ongoing advocacy efforts, NCSL attendees will notice our credit union sponsorships and messaging throughout the conference. This level of heightened awareness would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of CUNA, the leagues and business partners. We are looking forward to a successful event."
During a media call, CUNA’s chief advocacy officer, Ryan Donovan said credit unions will be particularly focused on speaking to state lawmakers about dual chartering, the credit union status, and data security. In addition, CU reps will be monitoring discussions and task forces around communications and interstate commerce.
More than 5,000 people are on hand for the meeting, which runs through Thursday.
“State lawmakers often become federal lawmakers, so helping them understand credit unions’ impact on a local level can help us garner their support and understanding in Congress,” said Jim Nussle, CUNA president/CEO in a statement. “It’s common for laws and policies at the state level to be a testing ground for federal policy, which means having a vibrant and innovative state legislative framework helps all credit unions, regardless of charter type.”