Legislative Update with Kenley

DakCU continues strengthening advocacy through Pints and Politics events as Congress turns to budget reconciliation.

 By Kenley Lamberty, DakCU Director of Political Strategy and Engagement

Dakota Credit Union Pints and Politics Advocacy Efforts Across South Dakota
Your Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) kicked off its yearly Pints and Politics advocacy efforts across the Dakotas, providing credit union leaders and staff with opportunities to engage directly with elected officials in an informal, conversational setting. These events allow meaningful discussion around the issues impacting credit unions and the members they serve.
 
Recently, South Dakota DakCU members met with South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley and U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson. During these meetings, credit union representatives discussed key industry issues and expressed appreciation for the continued advocacy and support both leaders have shown for credit unions across the state.
 
Looking ahead, DakCU plans to continue these efforts by meeting with candidates running for political office and increasing engagement during the primary election season. Through ongoing participation in Pints and Politics events, DakCU remains committed to ensuring credit union perspectives are heard throughout the political process. ​To reserve a date or schedule an event, feel free to contact Kenley Lamberty or John Alexander.

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​Lawmakers Look to Budget Reconciliation as Congress Breaks
Congress is set to return to Washington next week with budget reconciliation expected to be a central focus. Lawmakers have signaled interest in using the reconciliation process to advance spending and revenue priorities that have stalled under traditional legislative procedures. Early discussions suggest reconciliation could be used to address funding for defense and immigration enforcement, as well as other fiscal priorities, because it allows legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority vote.
 
The renewed interest in reconciliation comes amid continued challenges in the appropriations process, including the recent partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and difficulty reaching bipartisan agreements on funding and policy measures such as the SAVE America Act. At the same time, the administration’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget has added pressure to the debate, including proposed cuts to domestic programs such as the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. While the president’s budget proposal is not binding, it is shaping conversations as lawmakers weigh how reconciliation could be used to address funding gaps and policy priorities when Congress resumes work.
 
 ​Stay Connected
For more information or to share your perspectives, feel free to contact me. ​​