MADISON, WI (September 25, 2020) — This week, over 70 Wisconsin Credit Union Activists from across the state met virtually with members of Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation and the NCUA as part of The Wisconsin Credit Union League’s first-ever Virtual Hike the Hill event.
Subjects discussed included how The Credit Union Difference fueled significant support for members, businesses, and communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and economic recovery. The group asked members of Congress to pass a bill providing automatic forgiveness for loans under $150,000, noting the average PPP loan from a Wisconsin credit union was just $37,300. Activists further advocated for the ability to better serve members by asking the NCUA Board to approve Wisconsin’s Member Business Lending Rule, and additionally touched upon virtual exams, the Share Insurance Fund, and diversity, equity, and inclusion with NCUA Board Chairman Rodney Hood and Member Todd Harper.
Activists also shared with legislators the variety of ways that their credit unions have continued to meet the needs of their members since the onset of the pandemic, with over $2.3 billion in support to members through loan extensions, waived fees, emergency loans, and PPP loans, among other member-focused services.
While the ability to meet in-person at the Credit Union House on Capitol Hill was missed, the virtual format of the event was not without its advantages, allowing many Activists—especially those from smaller credit unions—to participate for the first time.
“As our delegation reminded Activists again, showing up makes a difference,” said The League’s SVP of Advocacy, Sarah Wainscott. “With continued conversations and face time—even virtual—with legislators, we’re building relationships and deepening understanding of our Movement and the issues impacting our members.”
Meeting with NCUA Rodney Hood
Meeting with Senator Tammy Baldwin
Founded in 1934, The Wisconsin Credit Union League is the dues-supported trade association for Wisconsin's credit unions-not-for-profit financial institutions cooperatively owned by their more than 3.4 million members. The League is dedicated to serving Wisconsin's credit unions and promoting the credit union difference through advocacy, education, and public service.
Sammy Dennis
sdennis@theleague.coop
