WASHINGTON — Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) sending the sweeping annual defense policy bill to the president. Credit unions hailed the fact the bill passed without any inclusion of Durbin–Marshall amendments or proposals.
“This outcome reflects DCUC’s sustained advocacy and leadership in opposing attempts to attach these provisions and other harmful language to the NDAA,” the Defense Credit Union Council said in a statement.
“The exclusion of these proposals and CCCA-like amendments in this year’s defense bill protects the financial well-being of servicemembers and veteran communities, as well as the stability provided by credit unions and the broader financial system that supports them,” Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO, said in a statement.
‘Disappointed’ in Lack of Provisions
Added Jason Stverak, DCUC’s chief advocacy officer, said in a statement, “While we’re disappointed to see the Central Liquidity Facility (CLF) and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) provisions were not included in the final bill, DCUC will continue working closely with Congress to ensure these important initiatives are advanced and passed as quickly as possible,” adds Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer.
DCUC noted it had consistently warned lawmakers about the negative impact these measures would have on military families and the credit unions that serve them.
About the Bill
The bipartisan measure, long considered must-pass legislation, authorizes roughly $900 billion in defense spending and outlines policies affecting service members’ pay, equipment modernization, cybersecurity, and global military posture. The bill passed both chambers with solid majorities despite weeks of negotiations over policy riders and funding levels, as the CU Daily has been reporting.
The NDAA includes a pay raise for troops, continued support for Ukraine and Indo-Pacific security initiatives, and measures aimed at strengthening the defense industrial base. It also accelerates efforts to counter emerging threats, including artificial intelligence–enabled warfare and China’s military expansion.
Non-Spending Provisions
The package also contains several non-spending provisions, including reforms to military housing oversight, expanded childcare support for service members, and updated authorities for countering cyberattacks and foreign espionage.
