Advocacy in Action: Highlights from Cornerstone’s Hike the Hill

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This week, Cornerstone and 85 credit union leaders convened in Washington, D.C., for Hike the Hill. Our agenda included meeting with agency heads to discuss pertinent regulatory matters and visiting with lawmakers on priority issues such as protecting the credit union tax exemption, expanding the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Fund, and opposing the Credit Card Competition Act.

Preparation for meetings with lawmakers is vital. As Cornerstone members geared up for legislative meetings, EVP/Chief Advocacy Officer Jim Phelps delivered a detailed briefing to review our legislative priorities and talking points.

Kansas Credit Union Association Executive Director Michael Murray reported that 10 credit union leaders held meetings in every office of the Kansas delegation.

“Sen. Jerry Moran expressed support for each of the policy positions we discussed with him,” said Murray. “In particular, he reaffirmed agreement with our concerns about proposed changes to interchange, and he demonstrated a thorough understanding of the credit union difference. We’re thankful for the generous time he took to speak with our group and individual members afterward.” 

Missouri Credit Union Association Executive Director Raymond Bozarth said credit unions representing Missouri were an energetic group who enjoyed a busy day on Capitol Hill meeting with legislators and staff.

"Our members were able to share some great examples of how credit unions are serving Missourians and how various bills may impact our industry," Bozarth said. 

Cornerstone League President/CEO Caroline Willard met with the Young Professional Crashers who joined this year’s Hike. This impressive group was eager to learn more about advocacy and engagement with lawmakers, and they’ll return home with an elevated perspective thanks to this unique credit union experience.  

Today, Cornerstone leaders met with several key agencies to discuss the latest developments on the regulatory front.

This morning, Cornerstone’s Associate Compliance Counsel Nathan Behncke and America’s Credit Unions’ Head of Regulatory Advocacy Ann Petros provided the pre-meeting briefing.

Afterward, the Federal Bureau of Investigations’ Supervisory Special Agent Kevin Gallagher and Special Agent Jeremy Obie spoke to credit union leaders about financial crimes, cryptocurrency, and terrorism.

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