Approximately 100 credit union representatives from across this state convened here for Credit Union Day at the Roundhouse. The New Mexico league sponsored and coordinated the annual event.
The focus of this year's event was educating New Mexico's credit union professionals about the legislative process and ways that they can have their concerns heard by the state's lawmakers. The meeting was held as the New Mexico Legislature was in the middle of a 30-day legislative session. The day's activities included a luncheon, visits to legislators and all-day public education about the credit union difference in the capitol building lobby.
The luncheon keynote speaker was Chris Kerecman, VP-federal government affairs for the California league. Kerecman talked about legislative strategies that worked in California and might also work for New Mexico credit unions. "He gave a very persuasive view about what our direction should be as far as being involved in political action," said Andi Baum, president/CEO of Everyone's Federal Credit Union in Tucumcari. "Chris painted a picture that we shouldn't be too comfortable and we can't wait for a problem to arise before we become involved in the lawmaking process."
