Key Trump Executive Actions of Interest to Credit Unions
Posted by John Trull on January 21, 2025

On President Trump’s first day in office, several executive actions were taken that directly or indirectly impact credit unions. Below is a summary of the key actions:
Designation of NCUA Leadership:
President Trump designated Kyle Hauptman as the Chairman of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), effective immediately. This change in leadership is expected to bring a new regulatory focus and priorities to the agency overseeing federal credit unions that align with the administration’s regulatory reduction goals.
The President issued a government-wide hiring freeze, halting the addition of new federal employees except for positions deemed essential for national security or public safety. This action could slow the staffing of regulatory agencies, including the NCUA, potentially affecting examination schedules and result in NCUA budget savings.
Termination of Remote Work Arrangements:
Agency leaders were directed to terminate remote work arrangements for federal employees “as soon as practicable.” This directive is expected to result in some staff turnover which coupled with the hiring freeze could further result in NCUA budget savings.
Regulatory Freeze Pending Review:
The President implemented a freeze on new regulations, with the following stipulations:
- Agencies without Trump-appointed heads are prohibited from issuing new rules.
- Recently proposed rules not yet published in the Federal Register must be withdrawn.
- Rules not yet in effect are encouraged to be postponed for 60 days.
This freeze could delay the implementation of CFPB pending rules affecting credit unions, allowing time for further review and potential revision.
Revocation of Biden Administration Executive Orders:
President Trump revoked 78 executive orders issued during the Biden Administration. This action will roll back policies that previously impacted financial institutions and regulatory frameworks for example around climate change initiatives that the NCUA was pursuing.
These initial actions signal a significant shift in federal governance and regulatory oversight, as agencies like the NCUA adapt to new leadership and directives. You can learn more about the Trump Administrations priorities and actions here: Inaugural Address, Trump Administration Priorities, Presidential Actions.
Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Regulatory Advocacy.