WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 29, 2025) |
Yesterday, the Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) called on the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) to address critical financial concerns impacting service members, veterans, and their families during Mr. Daniel P. Driscoll’s confirmation hearing for Secretary of the Army.
In a letter sent to the SASC leaders Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chairman, and Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer highlighted the vital role of defense credit unions in supporting military financial readiness—which aligns with the Department of Defense’s mission to enhance troop resilience. DCUC’s letter outlined key issues the association believes require immediate attention, including:
- Access to Military Installations: Ensuring consistent enforcement of the “one bank, one credit union” policy to maintain accessible, low-cost financial services.
- Financial Readiness Programs: Strengthening Army-credit union collaboration to enhance financial education and debt management initiatives.
- Regulatory Challenges: Addressing overregulation and misinterpretations of the Military Lending Act (MLA) and Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) that hinder service delivery.
- The VA Home Loan Program: Resolving appraisal delays and realtor misconceptions that limit military families’ access to homeownership.
- Protection of Credit Unions’ Federal Tax Status: Safeguarding credit unions’ ability to reinvest in the military community through lower fees and better rates.
“As Mr. Driscoll assumes this critical role, DCUC stands ready to collaborate with the Army to strengthen the financial well-being of those who serve,” says Stverak.
For more information, please see DCUC’s official letter and visit dcuc.org/advocacy.