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New York Credit Union Leaders Build Support in Albany
Nearly 100 Legislative Visits Made to Advocate on Behalf of New York Credit Unions
ALBANY, NY – Legislative advocacy was the focus of the Credit Union Association of New York’s (CUANY) State Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) held in Albany on April 16-17. More than 100 credit union leaders from across the state gathered for the conference, which featured informative programs and various networking opportunities. However, the highlight of the event was two days of meetings with state legislators.
A legislative reception was held April 16, and the next day, nearly 100 office visits were made to state representatives. At those meetings, credit union advocates rallied support for legislation that will make New York’s credit unions even stronger and benefit New York consumers and communities across the state.
“I am always truly inspired by the articulate, compelling voice our advocates bring to credit union issues, and when that voice is brought directly to our representatives, we can make a real difference,” said William Mellin, president/CEO of the Credit Union Association of New York. “Credit union leaders shared great stories about the difference they’re making in their communities, as well as the challenges they and their members are facing.”
Credit union leaders met with key State officials, such as Senate Democratic Conference Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (Westchester-Rockland) and Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb (R-Rochester/Central), along with legislators from districts across New York State.
The group advocated for legislation addressing municipal deposits, increased robbery penalties, ATM disclosure reform and state charter enhancements. Notably, several legislators committed to supporting the bills as co-sponsors.
As a result of credit union advocacy during GAC, two lawmakers have introduced bills that would provide credit unions with access to municipal deposits. Sen. Joseph Robach (R-Rochester) introduced S. 4672, which would allow all New York credit unions to accept and secure deposits from municipal corporations. Assemblywoman Inez Baron (D-Metropolitan) introduced A. 6740, a bill that would permit state-chartered thrifts and state-chartered credit unions to accept state and local government deposits.
Credit union representatives were also able to share the 2012 MORE Report during their legislative visits, which includes more than 1,500 examples of New York credit union outreach.
The Credit Union Association of New York has served as the trade association for the state’s credit unions for 96 years. New York credit unions have assets of more than $62 billion and serve 4.8 million members. To learn more about the Association, visit www.cuany.org. To find a credit union or learn more about the credit union movement, visit www.asmarterchoice.org.