The National Association of Federal Credit Unions is making a move to deepen the engagement of its state-chartered member credit unions.
Last summer NAFCU amended its policies to allow state charters to join as associate members. This move, if approved by NAFCU's board and membership, will allow state-chartered CUs full voting rights on all NAFCU matters, including elections, and allow those members to run for positions on and serve on NAFCU's Board of Directors.
A vote on the shift opens on Aug. 10 and will close on Sept. 9. NAFCU has not yet said publicly how many state-chartered CUs have joined since associate membership became available a little more than a year ago.
In a statement, Richard L. Harris, chair of the NAFCU Board of Directors, called the move "a natural evolution of NAFCU's mission." He added that allowing state chartered institutions full membership helps further the trade group's goal of helping all federally insured CUs with national advocacy efforts. He specified in a statement that NAFCU plans to remain focused on federal advocacy matters.
NAFCU's move comes as the Credit Union National Association and a growing number of state leagues are altering their bylaws to allow for independent membership with a trade association, a state league or both. The CUNA value proposition is centered around its partnership with state leagues and the ability to represent CUs – and influence legislation that impacts credit unions – at both the state and federal level.
CUNA did not respond to a request for comment from Credit Union Journal.
Dan Berger, president and CEO of NAFCU, hailed the organization's board for showing "tremendous leadership."
"The NAFCU staff and I are thrilled about their decision to offer state-chartered members a seat at the table," added Berger. "If our membership votes in favor of the board's unanimous recommendation, NAFCU-member credit unions would benefit from an even stronger and more influential partner in Washington, D.C. This change would strengthen the voice of all NAFCU-member credit unions and our industry at the federal level."
