Newsroom

September 03, 2019

NAFCU's Berger: Credit unions grow to serve the greater good 

danIn a recent Credit Union Times op-ed, NAFCU president and CEO Dan Berger reiterated the association's focus on helping credit unions grow stronger.

"This year we have really set our sights on supporting legislation and regulation that help credit unions grow membership, loans and revenue," wrote Berger.

However, unlike their counterparts in the banking industry, "credit unions grow to serve the greater good, not the greater greed," according to Berger. "Instead of lining the pockets of wealthy shareholders, [credit unions] give back, [they] help even more working-class Americans achieve the American Dream."

This is why the association has worked tirelessly to have legislation introduced, allowing credit unions to serve even more members. Earlier this year, House Financial Services Committee members Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) and Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas) introduced a NAFCU-sought bill, H.R. 1661, that would give the NCUA greater flexibility in setting loan maturity limits.

"This bill is a perfect example of why NAFCU proudly advocates for legislative and regulatory solutions that help our member credit unions grow," noted Berger. The association is also actively advocating for the introduction of a Senate version of the bill to bolster its likelihood of becoming law.

"Together, as we grow, we are making a difference in the lives of millions of Americans," concluded Berger. 

You can read the full op-ed here, and credit union leaders can learn more about NAFCU's advocacy efforts at the association's Annual Congressional Caucus, September 8-11 in Washington, D.C.