Legislative Update with Chesney

Tax policy takes focus—DakCU is actively defending the credit union exemption. Join the “Don’t Tax My Credit Union” campaign and upcoming advocacy events.

by Chesney Garnos, Director of Political & Grassroots Affairs

This Week in Washington
Congress is back in session, and tax policy is taking center stage in the House Ways and Means Committee. The Dakota Credit Union Association continues to monitor developments closely and, alongside America’s Credit Unions, we are actively engaging lawmakers to protect and promote the credit union tax exemption.

In legal news, the challenge filed by former NCUA Board members Todd Harper and Tanya Otsuka is progressing, with two key deadlines on the horizon. Defendants must respond to the lawsuit by Wednesday, and the plaintiffs have until May 12 to submit their reply. Our team is keeping a close eye on this case and will continue to provide updates with you all.

Also, key hearings to monitor this week include:

• Tuesday: A joint hearing of the House Financial Services and Agriculture Committees will focus on innovation and digital assets.
• Tuesday: The House Appropriations Committee will hold an oversight hearing featuring Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
• Wednesday: Secretary Bessent will testify before the House Financial Services Committee on the international financial system.

ACT NOW!
Engagement in the Don’t Tax My Credit Union campaign has reached a critical juncture. It is time for you, your staff, and members to get involved by contacting our delegation through the grassroots action platform.

Also, please make sure to check out our new  "Don’t Tax My Credit Union" Postcard Station that we will have available at the Summit in Fargo to target Representatives Julie Fedorchak and Dusty Johnson.

Joining Us in Fargo?
There are several exciting ways for you to get involved in our advocacy efforts during this year’s Summit! Check them out below:

• Stack the PAC Recognition Event: Please make sure to RSVP no later than this Friday to your GreenEnvelope invitation! We cannot wait to celebrate those who’ve contributed to our state and federal PACs in North and South Dakota! If you did not give last year, no worries—join us by donating $24 at the door, with complimentary drinks included.
• Silent Auction: Friendly reminder that auction items for the silent auction were due last week. If you did not meet the deadline, please ensure you get these uploaded as soon as possible HERE. The funds raised wills go towards the Roger Heacock Scholarship Fund, giving Dakota credit union professionals scholarship money to attend the GAC in Washington, D.C. and Hike the Hill events.

Register Now – Limited Spots Left!
Back by popular demand, we’re heading east of the river! Join the South Dakota Governmental Affairs Committee on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at River Ridge Golf Course, in Garretson, SD, for our annual event—an exclusive day of golf, networking, and advocacy with fellow credit union leaders and local legislators. Register Here and find the details for the day below:

Schedule (CST):
• 9:00 a.m. – Registration
• 10:00 a.m. – Shotgun Start
• 2:00 p.m. – Social, food, live music
• 2:30 p.m. – Awards & Legislator Recognition

Stay with Us:
Book a room at the brand-new Canopy by Hilton, downtown Sioux Falls. Call 605-275-4120 and reference Dakota Credit Union Group. You can also use this reservation link to book your room.

For any questions following the legislative session or other advocacy-related queries, please don't hesitate to reach me at [email protected].