Arizona Credit Unions Bring Member Impact to the Capitol 

Posted by Brooke Parent on March 13, 2026

Over 150 Arizona credit union advocates gathered March 12 for Credit Union Day at the Capitol — an opportunity for credit union leaders from across the state to connect with lawmakers, share how they serve their communities, and discuss the policies that help credit unions remain strong and responsive to member needs. 

Their message was simple but powerful: credit unions are not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperatives focused on helping Arizonans achieve financial well-being. Advocates also highlighted how credit unions are solutions-oriented for the communities they serve by helping families buy homes, supporting small businesses, building savings, and providing access to fair and affordable financial services. 

Advancing a Strong State Charter 

The day provided the opportunity to showcase credit unions’ ongoing efforts to pass priority legislation, HB 2979, the Arizona Credit Union Modernization Act. The bill ensures Arizona’s state charter remains modern and competitive so credit unions can continue meeting the evolving needs of their members. The bill, which passed the House by a 52-0 vote, is working its way through the Senate. Advocates expressed appreciation to House members for their support and encouraged lawmakers in the Senate to approve the measure as it continues through the legislative process.

Celebrating Advocacy Leadership 

During the program, Karen Roch, President and CEO of Credit Union West, was named Arizona’s 2025 Advocate of the Year. She was recognized for her steady, strategic leadership as Arizona’s 2024–2025 Governmental Affairs Committee co-chair and for her tireless advocacy on behalf of credit unions. Roch has testified in opposition to harmful interchange legislation and consistently helps lawmakers understand how policy decisions affect members and communities. She is also known for supporting peers and strengthening internal advocacy efforts across Arizona’s credit union movement. 

Arizona Financial Credit Union and TruWest Credit Union were also recognized as 2025 Top of the Hill Credit Unions, highlighting their leadership in advancing advocacy priorities at both the state and federal levels and their commitment to building strong internal advocacy programs. 

Insights on Credit Unions and Economic Growth 

Attendees also heard from special guest speaker Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, who shared perspectives on the role credit unions play in strengthening Arizona’s economy. 

Seiden highlighted the ways credit unions support economic growth by expanding access to financial services, helping small businesses grow, and supporting workforce housing efforts. His remarks reinforced how credit unions contribute to a stronger business environment and healthier communities across the state. 

Later, advocates went to the State Treasurer’s Office to get an inside look at Arizona’s 529 plan from Jeffery Ong, AZ529 Plan Administrator, packing the room to learn more about the strategy and opportunities while engaging in insightful dialogue with a key official impacting financial investment. 

A Strong Voice for Arizona Members 

Beyond meetings with legislators, the day provided valuable opportunities for credit union leaders to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and strengthen the collaborative relationships that power advocacy efforts throughout the year. 

The strong showing reinforced that credit unions are working every day to serve Arizona families to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and deliver financial choices to Arizonans. 

Posted in Advocacy on the Move, Arizona Advocacy.