Three bipartisan credit union reforms have been sitting around Capitol Hill, and the clock on the 119th Congress is running down. The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) has launched a new Action Alert to get them moving, aiming to attach them to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) or any other must-pass bill before lawmakers go home.
Why DCUC Is Pushing Now
“Congress needs to finish the job on these bipartisan reforms,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer. “Veterans building businesses and families working to make ends meet deserve action.” His argument ties the policy to the mission: financial readiness is part of military readiness, and clearing out outdated barriers to responsible lending is a practical way to support both.
The alert gives credit union leaders, employees, volunteers, and members a direct line to their senators and representatives. Stverak put it plainly: every DCUC member credit union has a voice in this fight, and now is the time to use it.
John Alexander, DCUC Deputy Chief Advocacy Officer, says local stories are the secret weapon. A veteran trying to finance a business, or a family that needs a gentler repayment schedule, can show congressional staff why these bills matter far better than a policy memo can.
The Three Priorities
- Veterans Member Business Loan Act (H.R. 507 / S. 110). Business loans made to veterans would be exempt from the credit union member business lending cap. That gives credit unions more room to help veterans start or expand businesses, buy equipment, and hire workers. Underwriting and safety and soundness requirements would still apply.
- NCUA Central Liquidity Facility Enhancements Act (S. 3575). Corporate credit unions could act as agents for a subset of their credit union members in accessing the Central Liquidity Facility. The result: easier participation in an emergency funding backstop, and better service to members during financial stress.
- Expanding Access to Lending Options Act (H.R. 4167 / S. 3616). The National Credit Union Administration could permit general federal credit union loan terms of up to 20 years, up from the current 15-year limit. Longer terms can mean lower monthly payments and more breathing room for families and small businesses.
How the Campaign Fits In
The grassroots push builds on DCUC’s earlier request for a financial services section in the FY2027 NDAA containing these priorities. Constituent outreach adds local voices to that request and strengthens the case for acting before Congress adjourns.
DCUC is asking participants to contact their congressional delegation and explain why access to responsible financing matters where they live. Member credit unions can widen the reach by sharing the alert in member communications, employee outreach, and on social media.
What It Means for You
If you belong to a credit union, work at one, or volunteer for one, your story is the evidence lawmakers need. Take a few minutes to use DCUC’s Action Alert, tell your senators and representatives what better lending options would do in your community, and pass the alert along to others who might do the same.