WASHINGTON, DC (February 11, 2025) |
The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) has provided comments ahead of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee oversight hearing, titled "Native Communities’ Priorities for the 119th Congress." In a letter sent earlier today, DCUC noted how many Native American communities, especially those in banking deserts, lack access to affordable financial services, leaving them vulnerable to predatory lending.
DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak explained how credit unions stand as a vital solution by providing safe, affordable financial products, financial literacy programs, and community investment opportunities.
“We provided these comments ahead of tomorrow’s hearing to share with the committee how supporting policies that expand credit union services in Native American communities will address financial exclusion, predatory lending, and limited economic opportunities,” says Stverak. “Credit unions are known for providing essential services like low-cost banking, small business loans, and financial education while reinvesting in local economies. To overcome regulatory and financial barriers, DCUC continues to press for legislative action that empowers credit unions in their role of offering expanded access to capital, strengthened consumer protections, and enhanced financial literacy.”
For more information, please contact Jason Stverak at jstverak@dcuc.org and visit dcuc.org/advocacy.