In an era of evolving financial regulations and political dynamics, the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) has launched the Defending Credit Unions Political Action Committee (PAC) and National Advocacy Fund (NAF). These initiatives are designed to fortify the credit union movement, particularly those serving military members, veterans, and their families.
Strengthening Advocacy Through the Defending Credit Unions PAC
The Defending Credit Unions PAC aims to amplify the voice of defense credit unions in legislative and regulatory matters. Led by DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak, the PAC focuses on:
- Preserving Tax-Exempt Status: Protecting the longstanding federal tax-exempt status of credit unions against challenges from the banking industry.
- Promoting Tailored Regulation: Advocating for fair regulations that acknowledge the unique, not-for-profit structure of credit unions.
- Supporting Military Families: Ensuring policies that enable defense credit unions to continue serving the financial needs of military service members and veterans.
By strengthening grassroots advocacy and influencing policymaking, the PAC seeks to secure a prosperous future for the defense credit union movement.
Advancing the Credit Union Movement with the National Advocacy Fund
Complementing the PAC, the Defending Credit Unions National Advocacy Fund serves as a targeted funding mechanism to keep the credit union movement at the forefront of the dynamic political landscape. The Fund delivers a stronger voice and representation in all matters relative to the operations and support of the entire credit union industry.
Funds raised for the NAF are disbursed by a Steering Committee for purposes such as:
- Public policy-related activities, including research and media campaigns.
- Meetings and grassroots advocacy efforts.
- Contracting outside experts, education, and retaining legal counsel.
This strategic allocation ensures that defense credit unions have the resources to address emerging threats in real-time and continue providing critical financial services to the military and veteran communities.
Recent Advocacy Efforts and Strategic Partnerships
In April 2025, DCUC launched a targeted advertising campaign, funded by the National Advocacy Fund, to protect the federal tax-exempt status of credit unions. This campaign reaffirms the important role of credit unions in providing accessible, affordable financial services, particularly for military members, veterans, and their families.
Additionally, DCUC announced a strategic partnership with Allied Solutions and leading partners, including Securian, Gallagher, Akuvo, Franklin Madison, and Route 66. These partners pledged a collective $100,000 contribution to bolster DCUC’s advocacy efforts through the National Advocacy Fund. This collaboration aims to enhance the resources available to defense credit unions, equipping them with innovative solutions, tailored products, and effective industry representation.
How to Get Involved
DCUC is actively establishing its PAC and National Advocacy Fund and invites credit unions and stakeholders to participate in these initiatives. By contributing to these efforts, supporters can help shape the future of the credit union movement and ensure continued support for military and veteran communities.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Jason Stverak at jstverak@dcuc.org
Email: [email protected]
