Hike the Hill Visits: Strengthening Relationships with Elected Officials

CCUA and member credit unions engaged in impactful advocacy efforts, fostering vital connections with elected officials yesterday during more Hike the Hill visits. These meetings highlighted the significance of collaboration between credit unions and policymakers in driving positive outcomes for communities.

Rhode Island
Rhode Island credit unions took proactive steps by convening in-person meetings with Senators Reed and Whitehouse, as well as Representatives Amo and Magaziner. CCUA and member credit unions discussed Senator Reed’s bill that aims to cap interest rates at 36%, recognizing that Federal credit unions have an 18% cap and offer lower credit card rates. Through our advocacy efforts, these discussions yielded commitments of support for Veterans Member Business loans cap support with Senator Whitehouse expressing strong interest in leading Senate efforts.

Massachusetts
CCUA and our Massachusetts members credit unions engaged in constructive dialogue with Senators Markey and Warren. Addressing questions from credit unions across the Commonwealth, the senators demonstrated their commitment to understanding and supporting the needs of the credit union community. Representatives Moulton, McGovern, Trahan, Lynch, and Keating also participated, personally greeting attendees and discussing critical topics such as interchange, housing, and loan maturities. Staff of Representatives Clark and Auchincloss were very receptive to conversations around the Member Veterans business loan cap exemptions.

Delaware
Delaware credit unions had the opportunity to meet with all three elected officials, advancing the movement and discussing pressing issues. Additionally, a luncheon with Representative Blunt Rochester's staffer provided an intimate setting for conversation, while Vice Chair Hauptman and his staff engaged in discussions around process and procedural improvements for examinations. Representative Blunt Rochester's acknowledgment of her longstanding relationship with credit unions emphasizes the lasting partnership between policymakers and the credit union movement.

New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, credit union representatives met with Representative Kuster’s staff and Representative Pappas, as well as Senator Hassan, to address key priorities affecting the credit union industry. These discussions emphasized the importance of advocating for policies that support the financial well-being of credit union members and communities.

Throughout all of the visits, credit unions advocated for interchange, emphasizing its impact on essential services like lower-interest mortgages and reduced credit card rates. Discussions also focused on priorities such as increasing Member Business Loans for veterans, raising loan maturity limits, and supporting the Board Modernization Act and CDFI funding. Lawmakers praised credit unions, acknowledging their vital role in enhancing members' financial well-being and providing critical support during times of need. Quotes like "You all do God's work" and "Now more than ever we need local institutions like credit unions" solidified the significance of credit unions' contributions to their communities.