Credit unions are known entities on Capitol Hill. I can speak to this as both an industry advocate and as a former member of Congress. There's no question that when credit unions come to Washington, people take notice and it can generate quite a reaction.

On the whole, our message to lawmakers about common-sense regulation for credit unions is being heard. Just a few weeks ago, the House passed the CHOICE Act, the Dodd-Frank replacement bill put forth by House Financial Services Committee Chairman Jeb Hensarling. Very few pieces of legislation are moving through Congress, so it's a big win for credit unions and their members when financial reform bills that address credit union needs are moving. Now, it's time to turn our attention to the Senate.

CUNA and the leagues have had great interactions with key Senators including Senate Banking Chairman Mike Crapo and ranking member Sherrod Brown. We're continuing to be actively engaged in the process as the committee looks at ways the financial sector spurs economic growth. There's no question that credit unions play an essential role in their communities and the lives of their members.