Your Leadership Link

Supporting members and communities, Dakota credit unions stay active during the shutdown.

By George McDonald, DakCU Interim President/CEO and America's Credit Unions

Credit Unions Continue Advocacy Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown
With Halloween and the time change just ahead, it would be nice if we could “fall back” far enough to a time when the government was still open but nevertheless, we are making our way through another week of the government shutdown and the challenges that creates. 

Despite this, and you can mark this down as “some things never change,” credit unions across the Dakotas and the nation continue to step up to serve their members in time of need. We continue to hear stories of what our member credit unions are doing in their market and please share those stories online with America's Credit Unions, in your social networks, and of course with your Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) advocacy team! These stories go a long way in our continued push with lawmakers as we continue advocating for the credit union difference.

DakCU is closely engaged with America’s Credit Unions, participating in strategy calls, sharing updates, and amplifying the Dakota perspective at the national level. Together, we are monitoring developments, coordinating advocacy efforts, and highlighting the difference credit unions are making for members during this uncertain time.

Looking Ahead to 2026
We are finalizing programs and event dates for 2026, but for now, look for the launch of The Roundtable 2026 in the next week or so. Ahead of that, registration is now open for the 2026 Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC), and credit union professionals can also apply for the GAC Crasher program - a fun way for first-time attendees to maximize their experience, connect with peers, and meet advocacy mentors.

In the meantime, here are a few more details of things your Association is keeping an eye on:
 
CDFI Fund Efforts
The Treasury Department’s Reduction in Force has furloughed most Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Fund employees. America’s Credit Unions, along with American Association of Credit Union Leagues and Inclusiv, is actively engaging lawmakers and the White House to ensure continued support. More than 100 lawmakers recently signed a letter defending the Fund, which is essential for driving economic growth and financial inclusion.
 
Every $1 in CDFI Fund awards helps credit union CDFIs leverage $12 in private investment supporting small businesses, homes, and community growth nationwide. Restoring full staffing is critical.
 
Supporting Members
Credit unions are assisting members impacted by the shutdown with loan forbearance, skip-a-pay options, and emergency aid. A list of credit unions providing help is available on America’s Credit Unions’ website.
 
Key upcoming dates:
• Oct. 31 & Nov. 5: Missed Congressional staffer paychecks
• Nov. 1: SNAP benefits and Head Start funding lapse
 
The Government Shutdown Survey has already received 134 responses. Input from members strengthens advocacy and media outreach efforts.
 
NCUA Budget and Oversight
America’s Credit Unions will participate in the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) public budget hearing on November 6 and submitted feedback on the agency’s proposed budget. We support modernization efforts but urge greater transparency and accountability to ensure member resources are used efficiently.

Have a great week everyone!

If you have questions or there’s anything we can help with, please reach out to me or your association team.