WASHINGTON-CUNA is asking credit unions to help generate more than one-million contacts with Congress in support of delaying the Durbin Amendment on interchange reform.
CUNA President Bill Cheney noted that more than 93,000 contacts have been made with Congress backing the interchange delay measures that have been introduced in the House and Senate. "That is exceptional. But we need hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of contacts. We are at a critical stage now. Time is getting short."
Cheney said Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN), has said he believes he can reach the 60 votes needed in the Senate, but the current number of senators supporting the legislation is in the 55-57 range.
Cheney urged CUs to rally employees and members to reach out to Washington through CUNA's Action Center, writing letters and calling on Congress through a special 800 number established by CUNA. Cheney said some credit unions have been averaging 15% to 20% participation from members.
With Congress beginning a two-week recess next week, CUs have an opportunity to contact senators in person. Cheney said federal budget issues had dampened CUNA's ability to reach congressional officials on interchange.
