Your Leadership Link

NCUA leadership update, election activity continues with credit union-supported candidates advancing in the primaries, and regulatory issues to watch.

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.

National Credit Union Association (NCUA) Leadership Update
The Senate Banking Committee is expected to consider several pending nominations before the July 4 recess, including John Crews' nomination to the NCUA Board. Credit unions will be watching closely as any changes to the Board could influence the regulatory landscape moving forward.

Regulatory Issues to Watch
Several regulatory proposals under review could impact credit union operations and compliance responsibilities:

• AML/CFT Modernization: America's Credit Unions supports efforts to move anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism requirements toward a more effective, risk-based approach rather than a technical, "check-the-box" model.
• FedNow Enhancements: Comments were submitted in support of proposed improvements that could facilitate more efficient cross-border payment processing while maintaining safeguards against fraud.
• Remittance Transfer Guidance: Additional clarification has been requested regarding implementation of new remittance excise tax requirements.
• Field of Membership Flexibility: America's Credit Unions has backed an NCUA proposal that would ease certain associational common bond restrictions, potentially expanding opportunities for membership growth.

Primary Election Update
Election activity is increasing as primary season continues across the country. This week, all 10 credit union-supported candidates in primaries held in Maine, Nevada, North Dakota, and South Carolina advanced to the general election.

In North Dakota, Rep. Julie Fedorchak secured victory in the primary election and will move on to the November general election. Credit unions interested in learning more about the recent primary outcomes can view the full update from America's Credit Unions.

Continued Advocacy Matters
With members of Congress frequently returning to their home districts throughout the summer months, opportunities remain for credit unions to engage directly with elected officials. Whether thanking lawmakers for their support of credit union priorities or educating them on emerging issues, these conversations help reinforce the value credit unions bring to communities across North and South Dakota.

Resources and Upcoming Opportunities
Registration is now open for Congressional Caucus 2026, scheduled for September 13–15 in Washington, D.C. DakCU is planning a fall hill hike. 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.