Legislative Update with Kenley

Summit fundraising and budget reconciliation debates continue shaping the credit union movement.

 By Kenley Lamberty, DakCU Director of Political Strategy and Engagement
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We’re excited to see all of you at the Summit!
As a reminder, our silent auction will once again be a highlight of this year’s Dakota Credit Union Association Annual Summit,  May 12- 14,  and is a meaningful way to give back. From unique experiences and high-end tech to themed baskets and local favorites, the auction always brings a fun and competitive energy while supporting an important cause.

We’re still looking for great auction items, so if you have something special, you’d like to donate, please let us know soon so we can prepare the listings in advance. Every contribution big or small helps make this fundraiser a success.
 
Proceeds directly support the Roger Heacock Scholarship, which provides opportunities for credit union professionals from the Dakotas to attend national advocacy events in Washington, D.C. It’s a powerful way to strengthen our industry’s voice and ensure our movement is well represented on Capitol Hill.
 
Lawmakers Look to Budget Reconciliation as Congress Returns
Congress is set to return to Washington this week with budget reconciliation expected to be a central focus. Lawmakers have signaled interest in using the reconciliation process to advance stalled spending and revenue priorities, as it allows legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority vote.
 
Early discussions suggest reconciliation could address funding for defense and immigration enforcement, along with other fiscal priorities. The renewed interest comes amid ongoing challenges in the appropriations process, including the recent partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and difficulty reaching bipartisan agreements on measures such as the SAVE America Act.
 
At the same time, the administration’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, which includes cuts to domestic programs like the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, is adding pressure to the debate. While the president’s budget is not binding, it is shaping conversations as lawmakers weigh how reconciliation could close funding gaps and advance policy priorities when work resumes. Read more in today's Your Leadership Link. 
 
Stay Connected
For more information or to share your perspectives, feel free to contact me. ​​