Your Leadership Link

Updates on interchange, congressional activity, elections, and opportunities to strengthen the credit union voice.

From the Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) and America's Credit Unions 

Your Dakota Credit Union Association (DakCU) continues working in close coordination with America’s Credit Unions, league partners, and industry stakeholders to monitor federal activity and advocate on the issues that matter most to Dakota credit unions and the members they serve.

The advocacy landscape continues to move quickly in Washington, D.C., and across the states, with several significant developments creating both opportunities and areas requiring continued vigilance for credit unions.

Major Advocacy Wins on Interchange
Credit unions received encouraging news this week as the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) issued its interim final rule affirming federal preemption related to the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act (IFPA), effective June 30. The action reinforces longstanding federal authority allowing federal credit unions to establish and manage fees through third-party payment networks and addresses concerns surrounding safety, soundness, and consumer impacts associated with compliance challenges.

While the rule provides important clarity for federally chartered credit unions, state-chartered institutions remain exposed under the Illinois law, underscoring the need for continued legal and legislative engagement. America’s Credit Unions and the Illinois Credit Union League continue to advocate for a definitive court resolution that affirms federal preemption for all financial institutions.

Another major victory occurred in Colorado, where Governor Jared Polis vetoed proposed interchange legislation after concerns were raised about consumer disruption, operational complexity, and unintended consequences for the payments system. The outcome highlights the effectiveness of coordinated advocacy efforts and the important role credit unions play in educating policymakers about the real-world impacts of state-level interchange restrictions.

With similar proposals emerging in states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, grassroots advocacy and continued engagement remain critical as policymakers evaluate future legislation.

Congressional Activity Remains Dynamic
Congress returned to Washington this week with reconciliation efforts continuing to dominate much of the legislative agenda. While attention remains focused on the current reconciliation package, discussions regarding additional legislative packages are already underway.

Although credit unions remain well-positioned in the current environment, the possibility of future tax-related proposals reinforces the importance of maintaining a strong advocacy presence. America’s Credit Unions continues to engage congressional leaders and committee members to ensure policymakers understand the credit union difference and the value credit unions bring to local communities.

The advocacy team recently conducted multiple meetings with key committee leaders on Capitol Hill and continues outreach efforts focused on protecting credit union priorities and advancing legislative objectives.

Meanwhile, the Senate Banking Committee is expected to consider the nomination of John Crews to the NCUA Board later this month. A timely confirmation would help restore stability and ensure a fully functioning NCUA Board during a period of significant regulatory activity.

Election Season Heats Up
Primary elections continue across the country, with America’s Credit Unions actively supporting candidates who understand and champion credit union priorities. Recent elections in several states resulted in strong outcomes for credit union-supported candidates, and additional primaries are taking place this week.

With a highly competitive election cycle underway and a historic number of open seats nationwide, America’s Credit Unions is making a record level of political investment through America’s Credit Unions PAC and the National Advocacy Fund to help elect a pro-credit union Congress. You can find a recap on South Dakota's elections from last week here. 

Resources and Upcoming Opportunities
Registration is now open for Congressional Caucus 2026, scheduled for September 13–15 in Washington, D.C. Your Association is planning a fall hill hike, and to please reach out to Kenley Lamberty for more information about Fall Hike the Hill Sept 13-16.

In addition, the American Association of Credit Union Leagues recently released two new resources available to credit unions:

• The Credit Union Affordability Toolkit, designed to help communicate the value and affordability advantages credit unions provide to consumers.
• The Elder Exploitation Prevention Toolkit, available in recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness Month and designed to help credit unions educate members and combat financial exploitation.

As advocacy efforts continue at both the federal and state levels, Dakota credit unions are encouraged to remain engaged, participate in grassroots outreach opportunities, and help ensure the credit union voice continues to be heard by policymakers.

Staying Engaged
For questions please contact DakCU Chief Operating Officer George McDonald; or Director of Political Strategy and Engagement Kenley Lamberty.