Four Reasons for Credit Unions to Get Politically Active Now

It’s heating up in Washington and we’re not just talking about the temperature.

With congressional leaders saying they are starting with a blank slate in the ongoing tax reform debate, everything is on the table, including the credit union federal income tax exemption. We also have to fight to preserve credit unions’ access to the secondary mortgage market, and to reduce the ever-increasing regulatory burden credit unions are facing. That’s why it is more important than ever to champion credit unions’ needs and concerns.

It may not be an election year, but that doesn’t mean you should cut back on your political involvement. On the contrary, there is no time like the present to lend your voice on behalf of our industry.

Here are four reasons to get and stay politically active:

1. Education must be ongoing. Your knowledge and insight about your credit union is something your representatives can’t find anywhere else. Inform and update your representatives regularly on the issues that are important to your credit union – and the concerns that you and your members are facing.
2. Everyone is doing it! Legislators and their staffs are regularly bombarded with information on every issue under the sun. Competition is intense in this politically charged environment – but we know from experience that it is possible to break through. It’s up to you to keep up the drumbeat so our issues remain at the forefront of the political debate.
3. Results. Some credit unions are so small, they only have one employee. They often serve low-income or rural communities that are forgotten by others. But together, credit unions of all sizes have a big voice, and in advocating for the issues that matter most to your credit union, you’re advocating for all. We’re making progress on regulatory relief and spreading awareness about the vital importance of the credit union federal income tax exemption – results that will help you. We just need to keep at it.
4. Finally, nothing beats the personal touch: one of the best ways to get involved is by joining with your colleagues and NAFCU to storm the Hill at Congressional Caucus. This year’s event takes place Sept. 8-11 at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C. The meeting offers you a unique opportunity to engage personally with lawmakers and regulators. As with all NAFCU events, the Caucus is open to all credit unions – not just NAFCU members.

There’s never been a better time to get involved. Register to attend the Congressional Caucus today, and join us in Washington to make our voices heard!