WASHINGTON–While much of the current political attention in the country is on the upcoming mid-term elections and a potential change in the control of Congress, one CUNA Hill advocate says the trade group also remains focused on the current Congress.
“We remain laser-focused on this Congress and when they come back for the lame duck (session),” said Jason Stverak, deputy chief advocacy officer. “We continue to do outreach, along with our league partners.”
Depending on the issue, Stverak noted credit unions are either working to ensure certain language is included or excluded from any legislation that moves through Congress. Any bill that advances in the lame duck session will most certainly be large, must-pass legislation, such as the National Defense Authorization Act or an omnibus spending bill.
Legislation Being Watched
The bills credit unions are particularly watching are the Credit Card Competition Act co-sponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Richard Durbin (D-IL), which credit unions adamantly oppose; legislation that takes aim at overdraft programs and fees (also opposed); language in the final version of the NDAA on bank access to military bases (opposed), and language from the SAFE Banking Act related to serving cannabis-related businesses (credit unions support).
Maine League Makes Endorsement
Separately, the Maine Credit Union League has formally endorsed U.S. Representative Jared Golden (D), who is running for re-election in Maine’s second congressional district.
“Congressman Golden understands the meaningful contributions Maine credit unions make in communities across the state and in the lives of our members,” said Todd Mason, president/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League. “We are honored to support his campaign and look forward to continuing our important work with him on issues that matter to our members and movement.”
The league said endorsements for public office are approved by its 11-member board. Credit union relationships, voting history, credit union advocacy, and shared credit union values all are considered when making candidate endorsements, the league said, adding the league does not endorse candidates based on their party affiliation and has a rich history of supporting candidates on both sides of the political aisle.
“The Maine Credit Union League and I share an important goal: helping small businesses in our state succeed,” stated Rep. Jared Golden. “I grew up in a small business family and I’m proud to work across the aisle in Congress to get things done for Maine small businesses…”