Legislative Update with Kenley

Advocacy wins; election results; interchange updates; and registration details for PAR for the PAC.

By Kenley Lamberty, DakCU Director of Political Strategy and Engagement

Primary Election Success for DakCU
South Dakota held its primary election last week, and DakCU saw strong results, with 48 of its supported candidates winning out of 60 races. This marks a significant success and highlights the strong relationships built with legislators throughout the process.
 
As the state moves toward the general election, DakCU looks forward to continuing to meet with more lawmakers this summer. This year’s election cycle also features a historic first, a gubernatorial runoff between Toby Doeden and Larry Rhoden.

Today, June 9, is Primary Election Day in North Dakota! If you're at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have lived in North Dakota for 30 days or more, make your voice heard by casting your ballot. Find your polling location and voting information at vote.nd.gov/myvotinginfo.

Voters who have not yet registered still have time to get involved and make their voices heard.
 
NCUA Rule Confirms Federal Preemption of State Interchange Fee Laws, Effective June 2026
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has published an interim final rule confirming that the Federal Credit Union Act preempts the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act (IFPA) and similar state laws. The rule, effective June 30, 2026, makes clear that federal credit unions may continue charging non-interest fees, including interchange fees, without interference from state-level restrictions.
 
This action reinforces the stability and consistency of the national payments system and helps avoid a patchwork of varying state regulations. Credit union leaders praised the move, noting that the Illinois law would have created confusion for consumers and imposed complex compliance burdens on financial institutions.
 
While the NCUA and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) have both affirmed federal preemption, the issue is still playing out in the courts, where final authority will determine how these rules are applied. Meanwhile, Illinois lawmakers have delayed the IFPA’s implementation to July 1, 2027, as legal challenges continue to move forward.
 
Registration Now Open: PAR for the PAC Golf Event
Registration is now open for the PAR for the PAC golf outing! Join us August 4 at Meadowbrook Golf Club in Rapid City for a great day of golf and advocacy.

The cost to participate is $200 per golfer, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the PAC. Every dollar raised will stay right here in South Dakota to support candidates who champion the credit union movement. ​Register here.

A room block is available until July 8 at the DoubleTree under “DakCU Golf.” Hotel booking information can be found here. Sponsorship opportunities are available. If you are interested in sponsoring or know someone who may be please reach out to me.
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Contributions to the PAC are voluntary and are not tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions will be used for political purposes. You have the right to refuse to contribute without any reprisal.
 
Stay Connected
For more information or to share your perspectives, feel free to contact me. ​​