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Prior to attending scheduled meetings with the Hill, credit unions received pointers from NAFCU’s legislative team on how to hold effective meetings and how to best advocate for credit union priorities. 

NAFCU Vice President of Legislative Affairs Brad Thaler and Associate Directors of Legislative Affairs Sarah Jacobs and Lewis Plush discussed the evolution of virtual meetings during the pandemic crisis. “Staff are more accessible than ever,” said Jacobs. The panel noted that while it is easier to schedule conversations with lawmakers, nothing replaces face-to-face meetings.

Panelists also discussed the importance of preparation before attending Hill meetings, specifically knowing background about attendees and their committees, speaking on the impact credit unions have in that lawmaker’s state, and keeping ‘asks’ high-level. The panel stated the importance for credit unions to establish relationships with members of Congress and meet regularly to voice the industry’s pressing issues. 

“Take advantage when NAFCU launches grassroots campaigns,” remarked Thaler. NAFCU’s latest campaigns encourage credit unions to join the association’s advocacy efforts to push back against the burdensome tax reporting provisions. NAFCU’s Grassroots Action Center is a great resource for credit unions to easily contact lawmakers to share how their actions are impacting individual institutions, members, and communities – and submit a new message opposing the tax reporting requirements.

Thaler’s final tip to credit unions was to provide NAFCU with as much feedback on meetings as member feedback helps to inform the association's messaging and strengthens advocacy efforts to ensure credit unions’ concerns are heard. 

NAFCU’s Congressional Caucus continues tomorrow; the lineup of speakers can be found here. Stay tuned to NAFCU Today for highlights from the event and follow along on Twitter with #NAFCUCaucus for live event updates.