League and Activists In Frequent and Productive Talks with Policymakers
Conversation with Congressman Steil & Financial Services Staff
Last week, League staff, with League Board member and Fort Community Credit Union Chief Lending Officer Danielle Frawley, participated in a call with Congressman Bryan Steil (R- Janesville) and financial services legislative aids from the Wisconsin Congressional Delegation.
The group discussed challenges financial institutions face, as well as trends in member behavior amid the pandemic. Congressman Steil, a member of the House Financial Services Committee, noted the importance of Wisconsin's financial institutions' work in supporting their communities and how they will play a pivotal role in the economic rebound.
Thank you to Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago for hosting this call!
Credit Union Discussion with Congressman Ron Kind
Last Friday, The League and credit union presidents from the 3rd Congressional District connected via conference call with Congressman Ron Kind (D-La Crosse). During the conversation, Congressman Kind, a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, shared an overview of The CARES Act. The credit unions highlighted emergency relief loans, challenges in preventing large cash withdrawals, and new challenges such as securing proof of employment as non-essential businesses close.
WEDC SB 20/20 Loans and Key Conversations
Last month, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp (WEDC) announced the SB 20/20 program, offering up to $20,000 in support for businesses with less than 20 employees, distributed through Community Development Financial Institutions.
As the state works to make additional funds available to support small businesses, The League, with five credit union presidents collaborated with the DFI, WEDC and community banks. The Activists provided critical feedback and ideas on how financial institutions can play a larger role in providing support to the business community. It was clear to state officials that financial institutions are the best suited to understand the businesses in Wisconsin's communities.
WMC Business Coalition Webinar featuring League President/CEO
Last Friday, League President/CEO Brett Thompson was a keynote speaker for a Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) webinar on the latest COVID-19 updates. The webinar featured Congressman Mike Gallagher (R- Green Bay), a representative from Wisconsin's Small Business Association (SBA) and Wisconsin Bankers Association President Rose Oswald-Poels. Brett's remarks were on the efforts credit unions and community banks have taken to meet the needs of their small business members and what measures will need to be continued in the coming weeks.
WMC Business Coalition Webinar>>
Election 2020 News
Democratic National Convention Delayed
The Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Milwaukee will be delayed for a month due to concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic. Originally scheduled to take place from July 13-16, the DNC has been pushed to a August 17 start date.
State Legislators Announce They Will Not Seek Reelection
A number of state legislators announced their decisions not to run for re-election. The legislators listed below will not seek re-election - all of which have been supportive of credit unions during their tenure in office.
Senator Jen Shilling (D- La Crosse)
Senator Fred Risser (D- Madison)
Senator Mark Miller (D- Monona)
Senator Dave Hanson (D- Green Bay)
Senator Luther Olsen (R- Ripon)
Representative Chris Taylor (D- Madison)