WASHINGTON— Monday morning the Defense Credit Union Council sent multiple letters to key Congressional committees, pressing for legislative and funding priorities that strengthen credit unions’ ability to serve military members, veterans, and underserved communities.
Protecting Older Americans
Ahead of a Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing, DCUC called for policies that expand financial literacy, retirement planning tools, fraud prevention, fee-free accounts—including participation in the Veterans Benefits Banking Program—and competitive savings products. Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak urged stronger fraud protections, financial inclusion, and policies that combat age discrimination and support older workers.
Boosting Rural and Veteran-Owned Businesses
In testimony to the House Small Business Committee, DCUC pushed for passage of the Veterans Member Business Loan Act (H.R. 4867/S. 539), greater credit union participation in SBA and USDA programs, modernization of field of membership rules, and investment in broadband to help rural and veteran entrepreneurs compete in the digital economy.
Funding Priorities
DCUC also wrote to the House Appropriations Committee, urging restoration of the CDFI Fund to $324 million, continued funding of the NCUA’s Community Development Revolving Loan Fund at $4 million, support for SBA lending programs, and preservation of the prohibition on a central bank digital currency.
“These funding priorities are essential for credit unions to continue serving military members, veterans, and communities across the country,” said Stverak.