WASHINGTON–The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) plans to host a meeting today of national credit union trade associations and state leagues to discuss what it said are the pros and cons of proposed amendments to the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act.
The massive, must-pass NDAA is an annual vehicle for proposals and amendments not related to defense spending, and this year credit unions are concerned either the full Credit Card Competition Act or some of the language from that legislation will be attached to the NDAA.
Credit unions and other financial institutions strongly oppose the NDAA, which ultimately would affect interchange fees and the resulting income credit unions see.
The nation’s retailers strongly favor the legislation.
‘Clean Bill’ Sought
Both DCUC and America’s Credit Unions have been advocating in Congress for a “clean NDAA” that does not include any non-defense-related provisions.
DCUC said it a message it had sent to other trade groups that it had heard on Capitol Hill there was a “large list” of amendments various members of Congress are trying to attach to the bill.
New Board Named
Separately, DCUC has named its new board and executive committee.
Maggie Sayer, president/CEO of Keys Federal Credit Union, has been elected as chair, succeeding Jack Fallis, president of PNW & International Markets at Global Credit Union, whose two-year tenure has concluded.
“As I reflect with gratitude on my time as board chair, I am proud of all we’ve accomplished together in service to our members,” said Fallis in a statement. “It has been an honor to lead alongside such dedicated colleagues. With optimism for the future, I warmly welcome Maggie Sayer as DCUC’s board chair, and I am confident that her leadership will guide the Defense Credit Union Council to continued growth and success.”
Added Sayer, “I’m deeply honored to be appointed as chair and grateful to my fellow board members and Tony for their trust and support. I look forward to building on the momentum of DCUC’s and its member credit unions’ shared mission—serving the defense community with purpose and pride. Together, we will continue to champion the voice of credit unions through strong advocacy, leadership, and unwavering dedication.”
Other board members include:
- Frank Padak, 1st Vice Chair – At-Large Representative, president/CEO, Scott CU (IL)
- Robin Larsen, 2nd Vice Chair – At-Large Representative, president/CEO, Cobalt CU (NE)
- Ron Aoki, Treasurer – Army Representative, president/CEO, Schofield FCU (HI)
- Jim Hayes, Secretary – Marine Corps Representative, president/CEO, State Department FCU (DC)
- David Araujo, Member – Air Force Representative, president/CEO, Service FCU (NH)
- Jack Fallis, Member – At-Large Representative, president, PNW & International Markets, Global CU (AK)
