The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) convened an urgent industry-wide call to address a growing push to attach unrelated and potentially damaging amendments, including the controversial Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA), to the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The meeting brought together credit union leaders, advocates, and industry partners to assess a wave of proposed amendments, many of which would impose additional regulatory burdens on defense credit unions or have no clear connection to national defense.
“DCUC and America’s Credit Unions have consistently advocated for a clean NDAA—free from unrelated and potentially harmful provisions. However, we are aware of efforts within the industry to advance a broad list of amendments,” says Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO. “Many of these proposals directly affect credit unions serving on military bases. Our member credit unions have not asked for these amendments which is exactly why a broader discussion is needed.”
Hernandez reminded, “When it comes to national defense legislation, we must be strategic, united, and remain focused on priorities that are most important and impactful for our military communities.”
During the meeting, DCUC stressed its concerns about the potential inclusion of the CCCA in the FY2026 NDAA, and called attention to other amendments or priorities.
“While we support ideas to promote industry priorities, DCUC believes coordination among credit union advocates is key before proposing any amendments in any “must-pass” legislation such as the NDAA,” said Hernandez. “DCUC continues to uphold an open-door policy, engaging as an equal partner in all advocacy efforts. We value this opportunity to stand alongside our fellow trade associations, leagues, and business partners to protect the interests of our members and the broader credit union community.”
“Our industry’s advocacy is most effective and impactful when we work together. We must protect our ability to serve military and veteran members by keeping defense legislation focused on defense, not weighed down or muddied by unrelated policy fights,” added Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer. “In doing so, we ensure Congress continues to recognize the critical value credit unions provide to both military and underserved communities.”
Congress is expected to resume NDAA action immediately after its August recess.
Learn more about DCUC’s advocacy on the NDAA at dcuc.org/advocacy.