The Defense Credit Union Council, DCUC, applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing bipartisan legislation to reopen the federal government and restore pay certainty for America’s service members, Coast Guard, and federal employees.
“This vote is a welcome relief to millions of military families and federal workers who have endured unnecessary uncertainty,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC’s Chief Advocacy Officer. “We thank Congress for acting to end the shutdown. However, this should be the last time our service members and Coast Guard personnel are used as political pawns in budget negotiations.”
“We are grateful that Congress came together to re-open the government and put an end to the longest government shutdown in history,” said Scott Simpson, America’s Credit Unions CEO. “But we are even more grateful to the credit unions who were a steadfast partner to millions of Americans facing financial hardships. We saw during the shutdown just how essential credit unions are to the financial well-being of people and communities across the country. With Congress back in session, our focus remains on amplifying credit unions’ voice to protect and enhance their ability to meet members’ needs, in good times and bad.”
Throughout the shutdown, credit unions once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to those who serve.
From advancing pay to waiving fees, credit unions stepped up when government paychecks stopped. For example, Keesler Federal Credit Union launched a Paycheck Relief Program offering direct-deposit advances for affected federal employees, ensuring they could continue to provide for their families during the lapse in funding. Similar programs across the country showcased the cooperative difference and the readiness of defense credit unions to support their members in times of crisis.
“Credit unions didn’t wait for Washington to act—they stood up for their members immediately,” Stverak added. “That commitment to mission and member is what defines the credit union community and philosophy.”
DCUC reinforced its call for legislation guaranteeing continued pay for the military and Coast Guard during any future government funding gaps. “Shutdowns should never threaten the pay or credit standing of those who serve our nation,” Stverak says. “Congress has now shown what bipartisan cooperation can achieve. Let’s build on this momentum to ensure permanent protections are in place.”
Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO, emphasized the importance of long-term stability for military families and their financial well-being:
“Our nation’s defenders should never have to question whether their pay will arrive on time,” said Hernandez. “DCUC and our member credit unions will continue to advocate for solutions that uphold financial readiness and peace of mind for those who protect our freedom.”
DCUC commends Congress for taking decisive action and extends its deepest gratitude to credit unions nationwide for their commitment to providing America’s communities with unwavering service, solutions, and support.