COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE
A PUBLICATION OF THE COOPERATIVE CREDIT UNION ASSOCIATION, INC. FALL 2018
Hike-the-Hill: Local Advocacy on a National Stage
BETTER VALUES – BETTER BANKING GOES TO BAT FOR SENIORS LEGISLATIVE UPDATES ACTIVATING FOR ADVOCACY USE THE WEBSITE TO KEEP UP WITH REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY ADVOCACY FROM A FRESH PERSPECTIVE Supporting your success. And their future.
Every moment of every day, a credit union makes a difference in a member’s life. We’re proud to play a role, with insurance and investment products that help plan, protect and invest for your future, while strengthening the financial future of your members — and their trust in you.
Learn how our approach puts you at the center of everything we do at www.cunamutual.com/aboutus.
CUNA Mutual Group is the marketing name for CUNA Mutual Holding Company, a mutual insurance holding company, its subsidiaries and affiliates. Life, accident, health and annuity insurance products are issued by CMFG Life Insurance Company. Property and casualty insurance products are issued by CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc. Each insurer is solely responsible for the financial obligations under the policies and contracts it issues. Corporate headquarters are located in Madison, Wis. CORP-1384152.1-0116-0218 © CUNA Mutual Group, 2016 All Rights Reserved. CORP-1384152.2-1217-0120 © CUNA Mutual Group, 2018 All Rights Reserved. TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 Creating Cooperative Power
CONSUMER ADVOCACY 6 Better Values – Better Banking Goes to Bat for Seniors
9 Use the Website to Keep Up with Regulatory and Legislative Advocacy
10 Advocacy from a Fresh Perspective
COVER STORY 12 Hikers Set the Pace for Advocacy
DELAWARE ADVOCACY 16 Delaware Legislative Report
MASSACHUSETTS ADVOCACY 17 Massachusetts Legislative Report
NEW HAMPSHIRE ADVOCACY 19 New Hampshire Legislative Report
NEW JERSEY ADVOCACY 20 New Jersey Legislative Report
RHODE ISLAND ADVOCACY 21 Rhode Island Legislative Report
ACTIVATING FOR ADVOCACY 23 Online Registration/Save the Date
The Cooperative Credit Union Association, Inc. Editors: CCUA Contributors: Published by: www.ccua.org Carole Langiu Katherine Butler The Cooperative Credit Union Association, Inc. 800-842-1242 Walter Laskos Mary Ann Clancy [email protected]
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 3
Join Us April 24, 2019
The official Spring trade show of the Cooperative Credit Union Association, the 2019 CU Marketplace Experience aims to deliver a whole new “experience” of trade show excitement, workshops, vendors, and speakers. This one-day, one-stop shopping experience for credit union executives and their staff will take place April 24 at the DCU Center in Worcester, Mass.
In addition to connecting with over 80 exhibitors at the trade show, the day will include 15 breakout sessions, a celebration of Credit Union “Difference Makers,” prizes, special guests, on-site interviews and podcasting. The largest show of its kind in New England devoted to credit unions, the 2019 CU Marketplace Experience is a must-attend event for anyone in our industry.
Registration is now open and is free to credit union employees who register at https://www.ccua.org/calendar/event/2019-credit-union-marketplace-experience- credit-union-registration/ before February 28th.
Exhibitor and sponsorship information is available at https://www.ccua.org/calendar/event/2019-credit-union-marketplace-experience- exhibitor-sponsor/ For more information about the 2019 Credit Union Marketplace Experience, or about other marketing and advertising opportunities for your company, please contact Association SVP Bonnie Doolin at [email protected] or by phone at 800-842-1242, ext. 321.
CU Marketplace Experience is the Cooperative Credit Union Association’s newest, one-day credit union trade show event exclusively owned and operated by credit unions. The Great New England Credit Union Show is not affiliated with the Association.
Register NOW - Savor the Experience
4 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 CREATING COOPERATIVE POWER
BY WALT LASKOS
hen I arrived at the Cooperative Today, however, marks another chapter for Credit Union Association in the Association. A new regional credit union December 2014, I was greeted magazine and trade show intent on delivering Wwith a tagline that would soon appear enhanced content and features designed to alongside a new logo representing a merger help your credit union stay abreast of essential of credit unions across three states into one information and trends to drive your success combined organization. The tagline, “Creating has been launched. Cooperative Power,” branded the high-level I invite you to enjoy this inaugural edition energy that fueled the combination and our of the Cooperative Advocate, the official new association’s growth to where it is today, quarterly advocacy magazine of the Association, among, if not the, leading regional credit featuring its summary of information and union trade association in the country. updates on the advocacy front for members Much has been accomplished since then served by the Association. thanks to the cooperative power that was Additionally, I encourage you to come rooted in the leadership of the board and out to the DCU Center in Worcester, in the continual support of CCUA’s member Massachusetts, on April 24th and take in credit unions, along with the many vendors CCUA’s 2019 Credit Union Marketplace and sponsors with whom we claim a Experience, our first-in-class official one-day special partnership. trade show. As of this writing, it’s on track to Creating Cooperative Power produced many deliver dynamic speakers, quality educational ‘firsts’ for the Association during the past 34 content, delicious food, expert vendors, and of months, including the launch of CCUA’s new course the friendly camaraderie of networking quarterly magazine, the Cooperative Advocate, with your colleagues and friends throughout which we are delighted to share with you today. our credit union industry. The objective of the Cooperative Advocate Welcome to the Cooperative Advocate! is to provide an update on the many efforts And we’ll look for you at CCUA’s 2019 Credit spearheaded by the Association in the areas of Union Marketplace Experience. Be sure to save legislative advocacy, regulatory advocacy and the date! consumer advocacy. Walt Laskos, CCUA Senior Vice President, Strategic This reporting was originally communicated Communications, may be reached at [email protected]. in CenterPoint Magazine and the Great New England Credit Union Show (GNECUS), a trade show with additional programming for young professionals.
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 5 BETTER VALUES – BETTER BANKING GOES TO BAT FOR SENIORS
s the Cooperative Credit Union fraud or abuse in next five years; and Values – Better Banking website Association’s Better Values – Better n 39% of Americans reported that their (www.bettervaluesbetterbanking.com). Banking (BVBB) campaign elders are “not at all” or only “some- Raising consumer awareness Akicks off its fourth season, diligently what” financially literate. Now that CU Senior Safeguard has been striving to raise awareness of credit officially developed and introduced, the unions among all consumers, it will cast Formulating a course of action BVBB campaign is taking up the task a spotlight on a growing trend impacting CCUA’s board of directors recognized to promote a greater awareness of elder seniors throughout the U.S. and what a unique opportunity to position the financial abuse and the resources being credit unions are doing in response. The industry’s financial literacy prowess to offered to help educate consumers about growing trend? Elder financial abuse. address elders and the havoc caused by financial abuse. it and how to take action, courtesy of the Getting the facts Their mandate: collaborate with a member credit unions of CCUA. In Oct. 2017, the CCUA commissioned nationally-recognized firm to develop The campaign recently launched in an independent survey of consumers to an online resource that will educate and New Hampshire as former CCUA Presi- identify trends in elder financial abuse, certify credit union employees on ways to dent Paul Gentile interviewed Assistant rapidly becoming a major concern of recognize elder financial abuse and how Attorney General Brandon Garod and consumers, regulators, lawmakers and to appropriately respond. In addition, the a victim witness advocate on his team, credit union leaders due to its impact resource must also include a consumer Sunny Mulligan Shea. The interview, part on the lives, the safety, and the financial component, helping everyone to become of The Cooperative Exchange series, can savings of countless seniors. Already more aware of elder financial abuse and be viewed on the CCUA website. Radio working with regulators on a variety of ways to combat it. commercials recorded and produced, projects around elder financial abuse and which aired throughout the area, featured supplying lawmakers with statistics on the Introducing CU Senior Safeguard Gentile and a host of member credit topic, the Association saw the need for an CCUA teamed up with EverFi, a leading union CEOs urging listeners to take in-depth perspective of the problem. national technology company that pro- action on behalf of seniors by tapping Once completed, data from the survey vides education through innovative and CU Senior Safeguard. made it clear that not only elders, but also scalable digital learning, to develop CU In addition to radio spots, interview their caregivers, who are often the ones Senior Safeguard. This online educational programs, printed articles, and social dealing with the financial affairs of their platform teaches credit union employees media postings, BVBB is hosting a series loved-ones and relatives, needed to be about elder financial abuse, including how of “Lunch & Learn” gatherings, open to on guard. to detect it and how to prevent it. CU the public and at no charge. The events Several key data facts set the stage on Senior Safeguard also provides participants bring lawmakers, caregivers, seniors, law how a response might take shape with certification, supporting require- enforcement officers, and credit union n 67% of familial caregivers reported that ments outlined in the Senior Safe Act to executives together to discuss elder their elder relatives had been targeted by allow a credit union safe harbor when it financial abuse in greater detail while also a fraud or scam; detects possible elder financial abuse. advocating use of CU Senior Safeguard as n 54% of respondents reported that an A second version of CU Senior a first step in building a wall of defense elder had been targeted via a phone Safeguard was developed specifically for for seniors and their nest eggs. scam; seniors, their caregivers, family members, Follow the Daily CU Scan for all the n 28% of elders have actually been a victim and all interested parties. It provides the latest coverage of CU Senior Safeguard of a scam; needed information to ward off this and the many events to be rolled-out in n 30% are worried they will suffer financial growing trend impacting seniors, and the months ahead under the banner of is offered free of charge on theBetter Better Values – Better Banking.
6 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 Introducing...
In partnership with:
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 7 8 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018
CUNAenviron-printAd-weBringIt.indd 1 4/11/18 1:51 PM USE THE WEBSITE TO KEEP UP WITH REGULATORY AND LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY
BY CAROLE LANGIU
redit unions are subject to federal regulations that govern the full range of their operation, enforced by many Cgovernment agencies. The Association takes a proactive role in helping credit unions to work with regulators to build a regulatory environment that will benefit credit unions and their members. The Association uses a variety of tools, including surveys, conference calls, and local working groups, to collect input that forms the basis for customized Scorecard, easily accessible through Comment Letters and Testimony delivered to the Federal Legislative Advocacy Page of our regulators on behalf of the membership. website or on its State Advocacy Page. The The Federal Regulatory Advocacy Page Scorecard contains the name, party affiliation, of the website is home to re-election date, and key committee mem- n NCUA Requests for Comments and the berships for each lawmaker, along with our Association Comment Letters in response; priority legislation and the voting record of n NCUA Board Meeting Summaries; each lawmaker. If the lawmaker sponsored or n Testimony before the NCUA Board; co-sponsored a bill, you’ll find it here as well. n Current Members Surveys; and Keep up-to-date on Advocacy Events n Other Regulatory News. throughout the year on the – you guessed it – The Association helps credit union profes- Advocacy Events page! Get the details needed to sionals have a voice before Congress – during ensure you don’t miss an opportunity to have Hike-the-Hill, district meetings, and ‘one-on- a voice with your lawmakers and regulators. one’ meetings. Helping credit union profes- Quickly find the details for your state’s advocacy sionals to understand legislation that impacts committee meetings, district meetings and town credit unions is an important part of our halls with lawmakers, annual government affairs legislative advocacy. and credit union days, as well as opportunities On the Federal Legislative Advocacy Page to participate in national advocacy events, like of the CCUA website, www.ccua.org, you’ll CUNA’s Governmental Affairs Conference, find a breakdown of key credit union legisla- along with convenient registration links. tion before Congress, including bill numbers, Opportunities to participate in political summaries, and sponsors. You’ll also find action fundraisers and other grassroots activi- overviews and briefings that include further ties, as well as quick links to greater detail on details on emerging issues such as current issues facing credit unions, round off n American with Disabilities Act Website the Advocacy section of our website. Accessibility; And don’t forget, the Association’s Advocacy n Risk-Based Capital; and team is only one call (or email!) away at 800- n Other Priority Issues and Legislative News. 842-1242, option 8 or [email protected]. However, advocacy doesn’t end when the Please note that the Association’s Advocacy meeting does. The most objective and accurate Committees and events are open to any Association way to evaluate an elected official’s performance member interested in lending a voice to help shape on issues important to credit unions is to track the local and national credit union advocacy their record. Our member-exclusive Lawmakers’ platform. All Association credit union members Scorecard helps credit unions to learn and discern are welcome to attend. which policymakers are truly their champions. Carole Langiu, CCUA, Director, Communications The Association tracks the legislative activity & Governmental Affairs, may be reached at of 36 elected officials – 10 Senators and 26 [email protected]. Legislators – from 5 states. Each state has a
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 9 ADVOCACY FROM A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
Hike-the-Hill as Experienced by the ‘Next Generation’
ince 1908, when the first credit have been scheduling and attending local always feel energized about the time and union was established in New legislative meetings for Affinity since 2012. effort spent on advocacy, especially since Hampshire and Massachusetts How did you find out about the there is no Membership Access Act for the Spassed the first credit union law, the current generation of young professionals. Hike-the-Hill? credit union movement has evolved to To help convey advocacy’s importance As my team manages the political and meet the changing world. However, the to tomorrow’s leaders, better messaging regulatory advocacy efforts for Affinity credit union movement needs advocates industry-wide explaining substantial wins Federal Credit Union, it’s important to for change to continue to grow, and some in the past due to unified advocacy efforts keep a close watch on the Daily CU Scan, of the best candidates to lead that charge is needed. In addition, the overall impact which is where I first heard about the Hike- are young professionals. of the many small victories in recent years the-Hill. I reached out to CCUA’s Vice Advocacy events such as the Hike-the- should be highlighted. They add up and President, Advocacy, Katherine Butler, Hill provide an opportunity for young do, in fact, matter. who answered all my questions about the professionals to immerse themselves in event and encouraged me to join! What could be a good way to credit union advocacy. This year, Grant introduce Young Professionals to Did you find the resources pro- Gallagher, External Affairs & Financial advocacy for their credit union? Education Manager at Affinity Federal vided before the event helpful? Explaining the importance of the issue Credit Union, joined the ‘Hikers’ and saw Unfortunately, I was not able to make succinctly is a good first step, and then the many aspects of legislative advocacy the pre-event call; but the materials sent providing them with a quick and easy call first-hand. His meeting with New Jersey afterwards, as well as the briefing packet to action. Like it or not, we are in an age of Congressman Josh Gottheimer reinforced provided when arriving at the event, had instant gratification, and you can’t expect the importance of relationship building tons of useful information. As a result, I the layman to hold attention for countless for effective advocacy. felt like I was well prepared for the issue pages of in-depth information which TheCooperative Advocate asked discussions with our elected officials. explains the history of the issue. We have Gallagher the following questions: Was the Hike-the-Hill what you found success utilizing smaller grassroots Was this your first Advocacy event? expected? efforts that use automated form letters No, my first advocacy event was the 2015 It was somewhat what I expected, but to contact the officials. While a deeper CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference the pace was something else! We were action plan is necessary, it’s been my when I was chosen to represent New Jersey constantly running from one meeting to experience that when engaging with any to “Crash the GAC”. In addition, I the next, but it was incredibly productive. level of staff that isn’t regularly engaged in When I look back, it’s hard to believe we advocacy, a call to action that can be com- accomplished so much in a day and a half. pleted in less than 5 minutes is necessary. Do you think “young profession- Do you plan to continue par- als” such as yourself understand ticipating in Advocacy efforts at what advocacy means? Federal and State levels? I think there is a recognition by many Yes, we are currently preparing to Hike- young professionals for its “place” in the the-Hill again with NAFCU at their industry, but there is limited understanding caucus, and Affinity continues to hold of its importance. If you have been in the in-district meetings while our legislators industry for less than a decade, it can feel are on in-district work weeks and recesses like there has not been any substantial until the next Hike-the-Hill event. We beneficial industry transforming pieces of are also active members with various state legislation and that “everything has always and federal advocacy groups. been that way.” There have been countless Grant Gallagher, Affinity Federal Credit increases to regulatory burden, making (l-r): Grant Gallagher, Affinity FCU, and Union, External Affairs & Financial it challenging for young professionals to Education Manager, may be reached at New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer. [email protected].
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FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 11 HIKERS SET THE PACE COVER STORY FOR ADVOCACY
Hike-the-Hill visits are part of our core advocacy platform on the national stage and complement the meetings held throughout the year and the work in local districts. Through these events, credit union leaders have the opportunity for substantive conversations that will help shape the direction of legislative and regulatory proposals which will positively impact the future of the credit union movement.
he 2018 Hike-the-Hill program, the credit union Tax Exemption Status was administered directly by the noted as bankers continue to launch new Association, provided a unique attacks on the exemption. Topportunity for member credit unions to dive After the conclusion of the briefing deeper into issues during relaxed discussions and a quick lunch, hikers from Delaware, with federal officials. The two-day program Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, scheduled a day of Congressional advocacy and and Rhode Island held meetings with members a day of regulatory advocacy and was carefully from both Houses of Congress. planned to provide the opportunity to visit Chief of Staff Greg Mecher, representing the with officials while they were in session in DC Massachusetts’ 4th District Congressman Joe during an election year; as well as coincide Kennedy, III, met with credit union executives with the NCUA Board monthly meeting for a and advocates. The credit unions provided personalized briefing. specific examples of how recent regulatory It officially began with a legislative briefing relief measures, particularly relative to loan in Capitol Hill’s Senate Russell building on parity in business lending, would benefit the the myriad of key legislative, regulatory and many local small businesses of the communities emerging issues facing credit unions at the of the diverse district which stretches from national level. Led by former CCUA President/ Brookline, Newton, and the western suburbs CEO Paul Gentile, the briefing also featured of Boston to Taunton, Fall River and the South CUNA staff Robert Henson, Associate Director Coast, encompassing 34 cities and towns. The of Advocacy, and Monique Michel, Deputy discussion then turned to the importance of the Chief Advocacy Officer and Senior Counsel. Bank Secrecy Act and its provisions, focusing Henson thanked the hikers, noting that on the need to modernize its provisions. The hikers are “tremendously valuable. They put importance of banking marijuana-related a face on the issues that we discuss with the businesses was also raised with Mecher, noting lawmakers. It’s important that the lawmakers that Massachusetts had legalized recreational hear first-hand the impact of the legislation on use of marijuana. you and your members.” Congresswoman Katherine Clark’s Senior In addition to Americans with Disabilities Policy Advisor Steve Thornton discussed Act (ADA) Website Accessibility, Bank website accessibility under the Americans Secrecy Act, Cannabis, Elder Abuse, Field- with Disabilities Act, among other topics. The of-Membership, Housing Finance Reform, credit unions shared the costly steps they have Payday Lending, and Regulatory Relief taken to review their websites in the wake of (S. 2155), the need for continued attention to the onslaught of predatory litigation by certain
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
12 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: (l-r): Digital Federal Credit Union’s Laurie LaChapelle, VP, Finance; James Regan, President/CEO; and David DeWitt, VP, Risk Management. (l-r): Ed Lopes, CEO Liberty Bay CU; Steve Thornton, Senior Policy Advisor to Congresswoman Katherine Clark; and Bernie Winne, CEO Boston Firefighters CU. (l-r): Massachusetts Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and Ches Garrison, Legislative Counsel to Senator Whitehouse. (l-r): Randall Sacilotto, VP, Community Development, Navigant Credit Union; Robert Falso, EVP/CFO, Westerly Community Credit Union; and Donna Gregson, EVP, Pawtucket Credit Union. NCUA Board Meeting (l-r): Bernie Winne, CEO Boston Firefighters Credit Union, and Congressman Joe Kennedy, III.
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 13 HIKERS SET THE PACE COVER STORY CONTINUED
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 the banking marijuana issue, noting which was underscored in the written that, although he personally did not support letter on S.2155 submitted plaintiffs’ law firms seeking to profit condone legalization, he saw the need during debate by the Association and a from ambiguities in the requirements for legislating the industry citing safety local bank trade group. for website accessibility under the ADA. concerns due to the large amounts of cash Following a full complement of Currently, there is no federal law or involved. Freshman Congresswoman Lisa robust Capitol Hill meetings, credit regulation that expressly covers website Blunt Rochester reminded attendees that unions continued their advocacy at the accessibility, which contributes to the credit unions were one of the first groups Association’s reception held for the first uncertainty and legal vulnerability that that she met with when she decided time at Credit Union House. The event covered entities such as credit unions to run for office and appreciates that was attended by member credit unions are facing. credit unions are “about the people, the from each state. The need for data breach legislation relationships, the connection with the Credit Union House, a stately was the focus when member credit community.” townhouse in Washington, D.C., is unions met with Sixth Congressional New Hampshire credit unions owned by every statewide credit union District representative Seth Moulton’s travelled to Washington to personally trade association. It was built primarily Senior Policy Advisor Eric Kanter. extend their appreciation to their for credit unions and credit union groups The credit unions shared the standards congressional delegation for their help across the country as a coordination to which credit unions are held, and in providing the recent and significant center on Capitol Hill. The legislative the lack of similar such standards for regulatory relief changes directly environment today demands that credit retailers and other parties where breaches benefitting over 660,000 consumer unions remain vigilant and fully engaged occur. A national standard was discussed members in the Granite State. Senator in the democratic process. Credit union after credit union representatives Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Maggie Hassan representatives gather at Credit Union provided examples of the very real and Congresswoman Ann McLane House to plan meetings with lawmakers, costs their institutions have incurred Kuster stood up for credit unions and construct legislative strategies, and share and will continue to incur because of cast leadership votes in favor of passage feedback from visits with key legislative data breaches. The group also discussed of S. 2155. Their efforts were rooted in contacts. the importance of banking marijuana- their deep beliefs that the bill significantly Congressional guests attending related businesses, and the Congressman helped local community institutions and included Senator Sheldon Whitehouse was thanked for his co-sponsorship Main Street consumers. and his Legislative Counsel Ches of the Secure and Fair Enforcement Previously, Congresswoman Carole Garrison; Congressman David Cicilline; (SAFE) Banking Act, which provides Shea Porter was the first member of James Ahn, Financial Services Legislative a safe harbor for credit unions who the delegation to support components Assistant representing Senator Jack Reed; conduct transactions with individuals or of the bill that were priority issues for and Bharat Ramamurti, Senior Counsel businesses engaged in marijuana-related the Association: the reclassification of on Banking and Economic Policy and commerce. 1-4 family mortgage lending and elder Julie Brinn Siegel, Banking Counsel, After thunderous applause for financial exploitation. Senators Shaheen representing Senator Elizabeth Warren. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons and Hassan joined her in co-sponsoring Special efforts to join credit unions at for sponsorship of S. 2155, the meetings legislation to provide a safe harbor the reception were made by Congressman with Delaware credit unions and their from liability for properly trained staff Michael Capuano, who had a last-minute Congressional delegation took an detecting financial abuse for elders. All schedule change, and Congressman James informal tone as lawmakers joined them offices noted the unity between local McGovern, who as a Ranking Member at the table to discuss credit union issues. banks and credit unions on these issues Senator Chris Coons candidly discussed CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
14 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 HELPING CREDIT UNIONS SERVE, GROW, AND REMAIN STRONG
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FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 15 DELAWARE DELAWARE ADVOCACY LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Delaware’s Leadership for 150th General Assembly
In the Senate Leader. Henry retired this year after 24 of the Joint Finance Committee. Senate Democrats have again nominated years of service to the 2nd Senate District. Republicans lost ground in the Senate in David B. Mc Bride, New Castle, to return Poore was first elected to the Senate in the 2018 mid-term election but can still to his position as President Pro Tempore 2012 and has served as Senate Majority hold up legislation that requires more of the 150th General Assembly. McBride, Whip since November 2017. Poore is a than a simple majority. a civil engineer, has served in the General client services manager In the House Assembly since 1978 and as President Pro Sen. Bryan Townsend, D-Newark, Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth Tempore since 2017. will round out the Senate Majority’s Beach, will remain speaker of the House The Senate will formally elect the leadership team as Majority Whip. while Rep. Valerie Longhust will continue President Pro Tempore when it returns to Townsend, a lawyer, was first elected to as majority leader. Both have held those session on January 8. the Senate in 2012. He has been active on posts since 2012. The Senate Majority has also elected a host of issues ranging from gun safety Rep. John Viola, D-Newark, is out as Sen. Nicole Poore, D-New Castle, to and clean water to open government and majority whip after reportedly asking to succeed former Sen. Margaret Rose campaign finance reform. be excused from his duties after six years Henry, D-Wilmington, as Majority The members of the Senate Republican in the post. His fellow House Democrats Caucus have selected Senator Gerald chose Rep. Larry Mitchell, D-Elsmere, to Hocker, R-Ocean View, as the new Senate succeed him. A final vote on the House Minority Leader. Hocker, a Sussex County Speaker will be held on January 8, when business owner, was first elected to the the 150th Legislative Session begins. Senate in 2012 following 10 years in the Rep. Danny Short, R-Seaford, will House of Representatives, and previously retain his position as House minority served as House Minority Whip. leader. The longest-serving member of In addition, the Senate Republicans the caucus, he has served in that post chose Sen. Cathy Cloutier, since 2012. Rep. Tim Dukes, R-Laurel, R-Heatherbrooke, as the new Senate was chosen to serve as minority whip Minority Whip. Cloutier, a retired after Deborah Hudson, the former No. 2 executive, served one term in the House Republican in the House, lost her bid for and was elected to the Senate in 2000. re-election. She served for many years as a member
Association Advocacy Department Contact the Association at 800-842-1242, option 8, or [email protected] with any questions or concerns. n Mary Ann Clancy, Senior Vice President - General Counsel, [email protected], Ext. 305 n Katherine Butler, Vice President, Advocacy, [email protected], Ext. 320 n Carole Langiu, Director, Communications & Governmental Affairs, [email protected], Ext. 318
16 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATIVE REPORT ADVOCACY
Massachusetts Maintains Democratic Hold
assachusetts voters did not jurisdiction of any congressional incumbent Elizabeth Warren, a member let the weather deter them in authorizing committee wrestling with of the Senate Banking Committee the 2018 mid-term election. digital commerce, consumer protection pursuing housing and community MDemocrats maintained their hold on and other issues of importance. reinvestment issues. She defeated the Legislature and the Congressional Congresswoman Katherine Clark Republican challenger Geoff Diehl and delegation. could become Vice-Chair of the Shiva Ayyadurai, an Independent. Democratic Caucus and has served as Value of Seniority and U.S. House of Representatives: the only member on the powerful House Newcomers two-year term Appropriations Committee. As votes continued to be certified, All nine of the state’s congressional seats Congresswoman-Elect Ayanna Democrats took control of the House and remain held by Democrats. All but one Pressley is distinguished as the first Republicans of the Senate. It is important incumbent were victors. General election African-American female to be elected not to forget the implications of the races that were closely watched included: to the Massachusetts congressional seniority of the Massachusetts delegation. n 2nd District: In a three-way race- delegation. Congresswoman Lori Trahan Congressmen Richard Neal and James Democrat Jim McGovern, incumbent is distinguished as the first Portuguese- McGovern are likely to become chairmen since 1989, defeated Republican Tracy American woman elected to Congress. of two significant committees: House Lovvorn and Independent Paul Grady. Finally, Massachusetts Senators remain Ways and Means, and House Rules n 3rd District: In a three-way race-Dem- prominent in their chamber and history Committee respectively. All legislation ocrat Lori Trahan defeated Republican reveals that all of our House and Senate related to tax law, including the credit Rick Green and Independent Mike members, at one time or another, have union tax exemption, fall within the Mullen. demonstrated success at leaving footprints jurisdiction of Ways and Means. The n 5th District: Republican John Hugo as possible candidates for higher office. Rules Committee is the traffic light for was defeated by incumbent Democrat consideration of all legislation on the Race Highlights Katherine Clark. House Floor, including amendments. Governor/Lieutenant Governor: n 6th District: Incumbent Democrat Seth Congressman Stephen Lynch, a four-year term Moulton, in office since 2015, defeated member of the House Financial Services Governor Charlie Baker, Republican Republican challenger Joseph Schneider. Committee, may become chairman of incumbent and one of the most popular n 9th District: Republican businessman the National Security Subcommittee of governors in the country and with Peter Tedeschi was defeated by Demo- the House Oversight and Government Massachusetts Democrats, defeated crat Bill Keating, in office since 2011. Reform. Congressman William Keating Democrat Jay Gonzalez. Similarly, n In the 7th District, Ayanna Pressley, is likely to take on a similar oversight Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito handily defeated incumbent Michael Capuano role on the House Homeland Security won her race against Quentin Palfrey. in the primary and did not face a chal- Committee. lenger in the general election. Constitutional Officers: four-year term Congressman Seth Moulton should CONTINUED ON PAGE 21 All incumbents were winners: Auditor, ascend in leadership on the House Budget Suzanne Bump; Attorney General, Maura Committee and chair the Subcommittee Healey; Secretary of State, William on Oversight and Investigations in the Galvin; Treasurer and Receiver General, Armed Services Committee. Deborah Goldberg. Congressman Joseph Kennedy III, serving on the Energy and Commerce U.S. Senate: six-year term Committee, will have increased impact No Massachusetts state government race as the committee has the broadest has been in the national news recently more than the U.S. Senate seat held by
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 17 HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?
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© 2018 John M. Floyd & Associates, Inc. J|M|F|A® and JMFA Overdraft Privilege® are registered trademarks of John M. Floyd & Associates, Inc. 18 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE REPORT ADVOCACY
Pappas Claims Seat Vacated by Shea-Porter; Other New Hampshire Election Results
ew Hampshire state percent of precincts reporting, Pappas led The first ballot question concerned representatives serve two-year Edwards 54 to 45 percent, while Libertarian whether citizens should have standing terms, with all seats up for Dan Belforti had 1 percent of the vote. The to sue their state, county, or local Nelection every two years. All 400 House race made history, with Pappas becoming government, including school boards. seats were up for election in 2018. The the first openly gay person elected to 83 Percent of Granite Staters agreed, close of the 2018 General Election in Congress from New Hampshire. resoundingly voting yes. New Hampshire saw both the House In the Second District, Democratic Question Two asked voters if they and Senate flip from Republican to incumbent, Annie Kuster, dominated her would like to create a constitutional right Democratic control. This ended the Republican challenger, Steve Negron, an to privacy form government. The voters Republican state government trifecta Air Force veteran and aerospace executive, overwhelmingly said yes – with 81 percent (where one party controls both chambers with 57 percent of the vote. giving their approval. of the legislature and the governor’s This was the first re-election for Chris office). Incumbent GOP. Gov. Chris Sununu since taking office in 2016, Sununu (R) was re-elected. and Democrats were eager to unseat The race to watch in the 2018 General the Republican governor and break the Election was in the First Congressional Republicans’ monopoly on power in District, where the Democratic the State House. However, Mr. Sununu incumbent, Carol Shea-Porter, retired maintained the lead over the Democratic from a seat that changed partisan hands challenger, Molly Kelly, a former state five times between 2006 and 2016. senator, and held his seat with 53 percent Republican Eddie Edwards conceded of the vote. the race for the 1st Congressional District Voters also weighed in on whether to to Democrat Chris Pappas. With 73 add amendments to the state constitution.
HIKERS SET THE PACE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 of the House Rules Committee, was The opportunity to “peek behind and small businesses have access to high- detained by an unexpected immigration the curtain” at the NCUA Open Board quality, low-cost financial services from meeting. Meeting as part of the Hike-the-Hill credit unions by passing FOM2, which “Clearly we learned that our agenda provides a big draw for many allows for credit unions to demonstrate lawmakers carefully consider a number participants. During this year’s Hike, what they view to be a well-defined area of issues important to credit unions. credit union members were on hand and why, and how they can serve it.” From the need to protect our senior to witness the finalization of NCUA’s In a prepared statement delivered by citizen members from financial abuse “FOM2 Rule”, which updated the Feld NCUA Board Member Rick T. Metsger, to additional reforms on legislation that of Membership rule. The proposal, he noted that the Association was one of negatively impacts our credit unions’ originally issued in October 2016, the first groups to reach out to NCUA service to their members, our credit focused on three changes to the on how the presumptive community unions did a terrific job relating the community charter provisions. did not work well, especially in Western impact of issues like this to their everyday Gentile noted, “NCUA took an Massachusetts, and that another approach operations,” said Gentile. important step for ensuring consumers was necessary.
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 19 NEW JERSEY NEW JERSEY ADVOCACY LEGISLATIVE REPORT
New Jersey Voters Make Voices Heard in Largest Voter Turnout in State’s History
n the midterm elections, New Jersey On the federal side, the race to former Navy helicopter pilot and federal voters made their voices heard to watch was that of returning incumbent prosecutor, who defeated Webber, a elect one U.S. Senate seat, and all Senator Bob Menendez, who defeated state legislator and former state party Itwelve of the state’s seats in the House of his Republican challenger Bob Hugin chairman. Representatives, as well as a number of for a third term in a hotly contested State Assembly Results special elections and a controversial ballot Senate race. This was an important On the state side, a number of special measure. While official results and voter race nationwide for Democrats, who elections determined who will hold key counts will not be confirmed until all anticipated losses of Senate seats in state seats. deadlines for absentee ballots have passed, states that swayed Republican in 2016. In the Senate 38th district, incumbent all indications point to a record for the Menendez successfully defeated Hugin, a Joseph Lagana (D) defeated Daisy Ortiz largest voter turnout in the state’s history. pharmaceutical executive, in a state that Berger (R). This is despite challenges at some voting has not elected a Republican senator in Key results from the House side of locations, potentially due to the state’s more than 40 years. the State Assembly were: new mail-in ballot provisions, which On the House side, key races were in n District 5 – Incumbent Willian automatically considered anyone who the 3rd, 7th, and 11th districts: Spearman (D) handily defeated mailed in a ballot for the 2016 election as n In the 3rd, two-term incumbent, Tom Nicholas Kush (R) a “mail-in” voter, unless the voter contacts MacArthur, conceded to his Demo- n District 22 – Incumbent Linda Carter their county clerk. cratic challenger Andy Kim, a former (D) has defeated John Quattrocchi (R) national security official in the Obama n District 34 – Incumbent Britnee administration, eight days after the Timberlake (D) has defeated Irene vote. The 3rd District includes most Devita (R) and Clenard Childress (I) of Burlington County and 17 Ocean n District 36 – Incumbent Clinton County towns, including Toms River, Calabrese (D) has defeated Marc Berkeley and Brick. Marsi (R). n In the 7th, a large area stretching westward through Newark, re-elected Ballot Measures four-term incumbent Lance over Statewide, the voters approved a referendum Malinowski, a former State Department on the ballot to fund up to $500 million for official. educational purposes for the Securing Our n In the 11th, incumbent Rodney Children’s Future Bond Act. Frelinghuysen, who is retiring after 12 terms, will pass his seat on to Sherrill, a
20 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018 RHODE ISLAND RHODE ISLAND LEGISLATIVE REPORT ADVOCACY
Rhode Island Rides the ‘Blue Wave’ as Voters Weigh In
n Rhode Island, one of the most On the House side, incumbent David the 2019 and 2020 legislative sessions. solidly Democratic states in the Cicilline (D) defeated his opponent The official vote for Speaker is taken by all country, all eyes were on the Patrick Donovan (R). Congressman Jim 75 House members at the first day of the IGovernor’s race, where incumbent Langevin (D), who was unopposed in new session, which will be held on Jan. 1, Gina Raimondo (D) won the state’s the state primary, also handily defeated 2019. A total of 38 votes is necessary for nomination for a second term. She opponent Salvatore Caiozzo (R). a majority. The other Democratic leaders defeated Allan Fung (R), Mayor of the Voters approved three ballot questions: are elected by the caucus. There will be state’s second-largest city Cranston, N Rhode Island School Buildings – The 66 Democrats in the House for the new and a number of other candidates, to decision by voters authorized $250 session, a gain of two seats. assume her second term. Raimondo will million in bonds over five years, with House Republicans voted to elevate be joined by her longtime Lieutenant no more than $100 million issued in Rep. Blake Filippi to the position of Governor Daniel McKee, who defeated any one year, in order to fund school Minority Leader. Filippi, who previously Paul Pence (R). housing aid and the school building served as Minority Whip, has distinguished A number of constitutional office authority capital fund. himself as an ardent defender of individual seats were decided. For the position of N Higher Education Facilities – Voters liberties, government reform, and the small Attorney General, Peter Neronha (D) will supported this measure to authorize business community in Rhode Island. take charge after defeating Alan Gordon $70 million in bonds for higher educa- (R). Incumbent Secretary of State Nellie tion facilities. Gorbea (D) defeated Pat Cortellessa (R). N Green Economy and Clean Water Incumbent Treasurer Seth Magaziner (D) $47,300,000 – The yes vote approved also defeated his Republican opponent, authorization of $47.3 million in Michael Riley. bonds for environmental, water, and The so-called “blue wave” was recreational projects. bolstered by voters in Rhode Island. The House Democratic Caucus has In the Senate, District 1 incumbent elected a leadership slate, headed by Sheldon Whitehouse (D) handily Speaker Nicholas A. Mattiello and House defeated opponent Robert Flanders (R). Majority Leader K. Joseph Shekarchi, for
MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATIVE REPORT
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17
Massachusetts General Court: key contested races, others who were Ballot Issues two-year term victorious include: Representatives Voters decided three statewide issues: Democrats continue to hold large Jonathan Zlotnik (Gardner); Carole defeating a measure to limit the number majorities in both houses of the Fiola (Fall River); Antonio Cabral (New of patients a registered nurse could be legislature. Longtime credit union friends, Bedford); Donald Wong (Saugus); required to serve; supporting the creation Senator Michael Rodrigues (Westport), a Theodore Speliotis (Danvers); Angelo of a citizens’ commission to propose an key credit union bill sponsor, and Senator Puppolo (Springfield); Dan Carey amendment to the U.S. Constitution Jamie Eldridge (Acton), Senate Chairman (East Hampton); Danielle Gregoire allowing regulation of political spending of the Financial Services Committee, (Marlborough); Colleen Garry (Dracut); by corporations; and affirming recent and Aaron Michlewitz, (Boston), Ronald Mariano (Quincy); and Senators laws offering the LGBTQ community House Chairman of the Financial Barry Finegold (Andover) and Edward protection against discrimination. Services Committee, were winners. In Kennedy (Lowell).
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 21 Credit Union Webinar Network Presents a
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Elizabeth Fast is a partner with Spencer Fane where she specializes in the representation of financial institutions. Elizabeth is the head of the firm’s training division. She received her law degree from the University of Kansas and her undergraduate degree from Pittsburg State University. In addition, she has a Master of Business Administration degree and she is a Certified Public Accountant. Before joining Spencer Fane, she was General Counsel, Senior Vice President, and Corporate Secretary of a $9 billion bank with more than 130 branches, where she managed all legal, regulatory, and compliance functions. She is a member of the Missouri State Banking Board by appointment of the Governor.
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22 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE FALL 2018
ACTIVATING FOR ADVOCACY
Online Advocacy Meeting Registration Offers Member Convenience
ne of the important goals of ADVOCACY and scheduling flexibility. Meeting details the Cooperative Credit Union will continue to be updated on a daily Association continues to be basis as events approach. Othe expansion of vibrant and impactful Registrations will only be accepted advocacy committee meetings that reflect electronically for the ease of member the needs of members in each state. Local use and can be made at any time using delivery and collaboration is the recipe for electronic devices of choice. Electronic advocacy success. All meetings are open in ACTION registration also permits the distribution to member credit union staff at any time of advance information or meeting as a member benefit. There is no cost to changes in an expedited manner. Once join or attend meetings. Members can now view upcoming meet- profiles have been established, registration To further promote transparency ings in any member state and register to for one or several credit union officials and advance notice, the Daily CU Scan’s attend through the Daily CU Scan or on can be readily accepted. calendar of events and CCUA’s website the website. Regardless of the path selected, Registrations may be made at have been updated to provide additional members now have a broad view of https://www.ccua.org/calendar/category/ methods for meeting registration. upcoming meetings for increased planning advocacy-events.
Save the Date for Advocacy
Committee Meetings Coming Events in 2019 Join us for these important meetings as Rhode Island Governmental Affairs Day we continue to chart our advocacy path January 16 throughout 2019. Committee meeting Governor’s State Room, State House, dates and registration information is Providence, Rhode Island available on the Advocacy Events page of our website (https://www.ccua.org/ CUNA Governmental Affairs advocacy/advocacy-events/). Conference (GAC) March 10 – 14 Washington, D.C. National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) August 5 – 8 Please note that the Association’s Advocacy Nashville, Tennessee Committee Meetings and Events are open to Hike-the-Hill any Association member interested in lending September 18 – 19 a voice to help shape the local and national CU House, Capitol Hill, Washington, credit union advocacy platform. D.C.; NCUA, Alexandria, Virginia
FALL 2018 COOPERATIVE ADVOCATE 23 Next Is the New Now. Your Possibilities Delivered.TM
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