DCUC Launches Grassroots Push For Credit Union Reforms In NDAA
By CU Today Staff —
WASHINGTON— The Defense Credit Union Council Tuesday launched a new Action Alert mobilizing its member credit unions and the people they serve to urge Congress to advance three commonsense reforms through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) or any other must-pass legislation before the end of the 119th Congress.
“Congress needs to finish the job on these bipartisan reforms. Veterans building businesses and families working to make ends meet deserve action,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC chief advocacy officer. “Put these provisions in the NDAA or another must-pass bill and get them signed into law before this Congress ends. Financial readiness is part of military readiness, and removing outdated barriers to responsible lending is a practical way to support it. We are mobilizing our members to make that case directly to lawmakers and their staff. Every DCUC member credit union has a voice in this fight, and we need them to use it.”
The campaign gives credit union leaders, employees, volunteers, and members a direct way to ask their U.S. senators and representatives to expand financing opportunities for veterans, strengthen credit unions’ access to emergency liquidity, and provide greater flexibility in loan repayment terms. DCUC is encouraging member credit unions to share the alert widely so lawmakers and congressional staff hear directly from the communities these reforms would help.
“Credit union leaders and members can explain exactly what these reforms would mean in their communities,” said John Alexander, DCUC deputy chief advocacy officer. “Sharing the Action Alert and contacting congressional offices brings those needs into the legislative conversation. A local example of a veteran seeking business financing or a family needing more flexible repayment terms can help staff understand why Congress should act.”
The Action Alert urges Congress to advance three priorities:
Veterans Member Business Loan Act (H.R. 507 / S. 110). The legislation would exempt business loans made to veterans from the credit union member business lending cap, giving credit unions more capacity to help veterans start or expand businesses, purchase equipment, and hire workers. Loans would remain subject to underwriting and safety and soundness requirements.
NCUA Central Liquidity Facility Enhancements Act (S. 3575). The bill would expand access to the Central Liquidity Facility by allowing corporate credit unions to serve as agents for a subset of their credit union members. This would make it easier for credit unions to participate in an emergency funding backstop and meet members’ needs during periods of financial stress.
Expanding Access to Lending Options Act (H.R. 4167 / S. 3616). The legislation would allow the National Credit Union Administration to permit general federal credit union loan terms of up to 20 years instead of the current 15-year limit. Longer repayment options can lower monthly payments and give families and small businesses more flexibility.
The grassroots campaign builds on DCUC’s request for a financial services section in the FY2027 NDAA that includes these priorities.
"Direct constituent outreach adds local voices to that effort and reinforces the case for action before Congress adjourns," DCUC added.
Originally reported by CU Today.