WASHINGTON--The Defense Credit Union Council Thursday wrote to House Financial Services Committee Ranking Member Maxine Waters, expressing appreciation for her Oct. 8 letter urging the financial industry to support federal employees, servicemembers, and their families during the ongoing government shutdown.
“DCUC and our member institutions have been leading the credit union response to this crisis and will continue to do everything in our power to help those who serve our nation weather this disruption,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC chief advocacy officer, in the letter.
Jason Stverak
DCUC said from the moment a shutdown became likely it activated its nationwide network of credit unions—including those serving on and near military installations—to provide immediate financial relief. Last year, DCUC launched its Government Shutdown Resource Center and has continued to equip member credit unions with best practices, communications templates, member outreach tools, and official press briefs, DCUC noted.
Since the shutdown went into effect on Oct. 1, credit unions across the nation have implemented a wide range of assistance programs, including 0% and low-interest emergency loans, payment deferrals, fee waivers, and free financial counseling. These efforts have helped servicemembers, veterans, and DoD employees bridge pay gaps, avoid credit damage, and maintain financial stability. Collectively, these programs represent millions of dollars in direct relief for military and federal families nationwide, DCUC said.
"Despite these extraordinary steps, DCUC stresses that the recurring threat of government shutdowns demands a permanent legislative solution to protect those who serve," the trade group said.
DCUC reaffirmed its strong support for the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026 and the Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act of 2025, bipartisan measures that would ensure servicemembers, Guard and Reserve personnel, essential civilian employees, and Coast Guard members continue to receive pay and benefits during any future funding lapse.
“Those who defend our nation deserve financial certainty and should never be used as bargaining chips in a budget standoff,” said Stverak.
DCUC has urged Congress to include both measures, as well as the CLF Enhancements Act, in the final FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to guarantee pay protection for all who serve and advance the financial well-being of military families and veterans.
DCUC said it welcomes continued dialogue with Waters and her staff to share details of member credit union relief programs and discuss next steps in securing long-term financial readiness for military families.
"For nearly five years, DCUC has led the charge in advocating for enhancements to the National Credit Union Administration’s Central Liquidity Facility (CLF) to strengthen system resilience and protect members during financial disruptions," DCUC said.
Learn more and view DCUC’s letters on the CLF here.