Legislative & Regulatory Update

​Uniting for the future and standing strong against harmful legislation - DakCU advocacy and opportunities in action! 

by John Alexander, Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs
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Standing Strong Against Harmful NDAA Amendments
At Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU), we recently joined forces with other state and regional credit union leagues to send a strong, unified message to key members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees. Our letter addressed concerns over potential amendments to the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that threaten to impose harmful new burdens on credit unions. Among the most alarming proposals are expanded interchange price caps, changes to military banking provisions, and increased liabilities for electronic payments fraud. These changes could undermine the vital financial services that credit unions provide to America’s military members, veterans, and communities.

By standing shoulder-to-shoulder with credit union partners nationwide, we are fighting to ensure that credit unions can continue offering secure, affordable, and accessible services. Our commitment to advocating for a fair regulatory environment remains unwavering, and we encourage our members to stay informed and engaged to protect the financial well-being of credit union members everywhere.
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Pints & Politics: Fueling Credit Union Advocacy Across North Dakota
Meanwhile, our Pints & Politics series continues to take credit union advocacy to a new level, with impressive turnouts and direct engagement fueling meaningful conversations across the state. These gatherings have become essential spaces where credit union professionals, board members, and employees can sit down with lawmakers and candidates who shape the policies that affect our industry. Earlier this week, our RoughRider Chapter events in Williston, hosted at Western Cooperative CU, and in Dickinson at Blue42, brought together strong crowds of credit union advocates eager to discuss the future. 

We’ve already connected with over 15 legislators and 12 candidates in recent days, emphasizing the growing momentum behind these efforts. But we’re far from done. Up next, the Red River Chapter will meet on October 8 at Fargo Brewing Company, followed by the Maurie C. Byrne Chapter on October 10 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Grand Forks. These events offer an invaluable opportunity for credit union leaders to have their voices heard as we face critical policy decisions ahead. With regulations constantly evolving, Pints & Politics remains a vital platform to ensure credit unions remain at the forefront of legislative conversations. There’s still time to join us, find an upcoming event here.
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The Roger Heacock Scholarship: A Gateway to the GAC Experience
In addition to these advocacy efforts, DakCU is proud to announce the Roger Heacock Scholarship, a unique opportunity for two lucky North Dakotans and two lucky South Dakotans. These $2,500 scholarships will allow the recipients to attend the Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) in Washington, D.C., the largest annual credit union event of the year, which takes place this March. Hosted by America's Credit Unions, the GAC gathers thousands of industry leaders, advocates, and policymakers to discuss and influence the future of credit unions. The scholarship will cover travel and registration, giving the recipients a front-row seat to critical discussions on legislative advocacy, networking, and the latest industry developments. This is a rare chance to represent the Dakotas on a national stage and shape the future of financial services while participating in one of the most impactful gatherings in the credit union movement. Don't hesitate to contact me or or Chesney with any questions. Click here for additional information - deadline to apply is November 29. 

March 2024 GAC Delegation from ND meets with Senator Hoeven.