January 23, 2012

Treasury Hears CUs’ 2012 Priorities

CUNA President/CEO Bill Cheney met with the Treasury Department’s new assistant secretary for financial institutions to discuss credit union policy priorities for 2012, including the continuation of credit unions’ tax-exempt status, meaningful regulatory relief for credit unions, allowing credit unions to strengthen their ability to manage risks through the use of supplemental capital, and ensuring greater flexibility for credit unions to provide more member business loans. (page 1)

2012 ‘Hikes’ Spotlight Key Issues

CUNA’s 2012 Hike the Hill program started strong last week, with the Missouri Credit Union Association and representatives from credit unions in that state emphasizing the importance of increasing the current 12.25% of assets member business lending cap, allowing alternative sources of capital for credit unions, and maintaining the credit union tax status in meetings with Capitol Hill legislators and their staff. (page 1)

Exam Bill: Boost to Safety and Soundness

CUNA again spoke out in support of H.R. 3461, the Financial Institution Examination Fairness and Reform Act, saying in a letter to Congress that the bill would help strengthen the safety and soundness of the financial system by increasing the consistency and fairness of financial institution examinations. CUNA said the progress of the bill is “a firm step in the right direction.” (page 2)

CUNA, Leagues Work to Support 2012 Statehouse Agenda

As states begin their 2012 legislative sessions, the state leagues will have many opportunities to promote and protect credit unions at their statehouses, with CUNA working to support their efforts. (page 7)

Click here to read the entire issue of Newswatch