MCUL Wraps Up 2020 Hike at Home: Congressional Delegation Expresses Support for CU Priorities

MCUL’s recently concluded 2020 Hike at Home event was a resounding success following two weeks of virtual meetings with Michigan’s congressional delegation.

Over the course of the Hike, approximately 80 leaders from 42 credit unions across the state participated in meetings. The number of credit advocates participating this year represents a significant increase in Hike participation compared to previous years; approximately 50 CU leaders were on hand for our in-person Hike in Washington, D.C. in 2019.

During the second week of Hike meetings, we met with key staff for U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow and Reps. Fred Upton, Andy Levin and Haley Stevens, along with Rep. Paul Mitchell’s Banking LA. Following the same format as week one, local credit union advocates led the discussion on our core federal legislative priorities, including: Paycheck Protection Program forgiveness; the creation of a federal housing assistance fund; additional funding for CDFI; the credit union difference/not-for-profit tax status; data privacy/security; modernizing the FCUA; Bank Secrecy Act/anti-money laundering reforms; updating federal e-commerce laws; and cannabis banking.

MCUL was pleased to have members of the delegation reinforce their support for key issues and provide valuable insight on how and when certain legislation related to credit union priorities may move. In addition, several Representatives expressed a desire to sponsor or co-sponsor legislation in 2021 with the start of the new, 117th Congress, that will address several key priorities. This is a clear sign that MCUL's advocacy efforts with federal elected officials is having a positive impact.

The League thanks those credit union advocates who participated in this year’s Hike at Home. If you were not able to attend the recent Hike and are interested in federal advocacy efforts, please feel free to reach out to MCUL Director of Federal Legislative Affairs Todd Jorns to discuss how you can help.