Home » Advocacy On The Move »

GoWest Testifies on NCUA’s 2026–2027 Budget, Applauds Transparency and Focus on Efficiency

Posted by on November 5, 2025

GoWest Credit Union Association’s Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer, Jennifer Wagner, testified before the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) during its public budget hearing Nov. 5, emphasizing the importance of transparency, efficiency, and continued support for the credit union system.

Wagner commended the NCUA’s budget hearing process—unique among financial regulators—for allowing open dialogue between the agency and stakeholders. “This transparency allows stakeholders to share insights and concerns directly with the agency, fostering a more collaborative approach to budgeting,” she said.

She praised the agency’s commitment to driving efficiencies and aligning resources to its core mission of safety and soundness. The proposed 2026–2027 budget reflects a 23.5% decrease in the 2026 operating budget and a 41.6% reduction in the Share Insurance Fund Administrative Budget—an $81.5 million total budget reduction that Wagner noted will directly benefit credit union members.

She also highlighted the NCUA’s progress in improving the examination process, noting that credit unions in the GoWest region are already experiencing positive changes such as shorter exams, improved pre-exam preparation, and more efficient remote processes. She recognized Western Region Director Julie Cayse for her leadership during this transition.

While expressing support for the agency’s priorities, Wagner urged the NCUA to maintain robust staffing within the Office of National Examination and Supervision (ONES) and the Credit Union Resources and Expansion Office (CURE)—both essential to protecting system stability and supporting smaller, emerging credit unions.

GoWest also raised concerns about proposed reductions in examiner training, which is slated for a 33% cut, emphasizing that training remains vital as credit unions navigate rapid changes in the financial services marketplace. Additionally, Wagner called for greater clarity on 23 new positions under the Office of the CFO and encouraged continued investment in staff travel to support transparency and communication with the industry.

Wagner closed her remarks by thanking the NCUA for its partnership and commitment to open engagement. “GoWest and our member credit unions stand behind the NCUA’s mission of ensuring the safety and soundness of the credit union system,” she said. “A strong, stable regulatory structure is essential for credit unions to deliver not-for-profit, cooperative financial services that strengthen communities across the country.”

GoWest was the only state league to testify in person. Other commenters were America’s Credit Unions, the Defense Credit Union Council, and the Cooperative Credit Union Association.

The NCUA will now take the next month to review input from the hearing. A final decision on the 2026-7 budget is expected at the next NCUA Board Meeting on Dec. 18.

You can watch the full hearing here.

View the NCUA budget presentation here.

View the NCUA draft budget here.

 

 

 

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Regulatory Advocacy.

Jan7

CEO Co-Lab

GoWest's CEO Co-Lab is quickly becoming a "can't-miss" event among the region's most forward-thinking and innovative CEOs – you won't want to miss it.
Jan21

Idaho CU Day at the Capitol

Our collective advocacy priority will be to showcase the impact Idaho credit unions are making across the state, while increasing our connection and relationship with our elected leaders at the Idaho Capitol.
Jan28

Washington CU Day at the Capitol

Our collective advocacy priority will be to showcase the impact Washington credit unions are making across the state, while increasing our connection and relationship with our elected leaders at the Washington Capitol.  
Feb5

Colorado CU Day at the Capitol

Our collective advocacy priority will be to showcase the impact Colorado credit unions are making across the state, while increasing our connection and relationship with our elected leaders at the Colorado Capitol.