Credit Union Leaders Bring Advocacy to Capitol Hill Amid Key Legislative Discussions

Posted by Ryan Fitzgerald on May 23, 2025

This week, Washington, D.C. was abuzz not only with the ongoing reconciliation process for President Trump’s expansive “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” but also with the voices of 23 dedicated GoWest credit union leaders. In a series of more than thirty-five strategic meetings, these advocates engaged directly with lawmakers and regulators, delivering powerful stories of the credit union movement’s impact on the members and communities they serve.

The group’s presence on Capitol Hill was both timely and critical, giving the opportunity to discuss four priority issues: preserving the credit union tax exemption, identifying opportunities to address the nation’s housing challenges, modernizing the Federal Credit Union Act, and navigating the rapidly evolving digital assets landscape.

During the visit, a potentially significant issue arose regarding the GENIUS Act, the stablecoin regulation bill that is currently gaining traction in the Senate. During our planned meetings, advocates spoke with the bill’s co-author, Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming. During the meeting, advocates raised important concerns regarding a potential amendment that could introduce language from the harmful Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA). This timely dialogue provided direct feedback to one of the co-authors and leaders on the GENIUS Act and was a perfect reminder of the value of credit union voices in the legislative process, especially when policy changes may have far-reaching implications.

Following our discussion Senator Lummis proceeded directly to a press conference where she outlined, “it’s been so challenging to get it (GENIUS Act) to this point, and we’re not done yet. I do consider amendments that are off topic — meaning not having to do with stablecoins — to be a bridge too far.”

Senator Lummis who expressed her appreciation to our credit unions for sharing their concerns with her, outlined to the press that she had not made a final decision on the credit card bill, but said: “I certainly don’t want to vote on it on this bill.”

A second amendment to the bill is equally concerning. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced a proposed amendment that would cap credit card interest rates at 10%. GoWest, and our national trade association, are opposed to this and will be working against its inclusion in the bill.

Such direct engagement is vital in protecting the operational environment of credit unions and ensuring their ability to serve members effectively. These efforts are a continual reminder of the importance of strong advocacy – developing and maintaining relationships with policymakers. Armed with stories of impact, advocates communicate how legislative and regulatory decisions influence everything from loan availability to access to digital financial tools.

“Advocacy isn’t just about lobbying—it’s about making sure that real stories and real people are heard where decisions are made,” said Ryan Fitzgerald, GoWest’s SVP of Advocacy. “When we come to D.C and share how credit unions help families buy homes, start businesses, and build financial security for real constituents, lawmakers are reminded of the human impact behind the policies they enact.”

As the reconciliation process plays out in the Senate, the GENIUS Act moves to the Senate floor, and other key pieces of legislation are vetted, continued vigilance and engagement will be essential. GoWest is actively engaged in ongoing conversations as we monitor developments closely and take every opportunity to advocate for fair, balanced policies that support the financial well-being of the credit union movement.

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Federal Advocacy.