Visa Inc. has broken with its customary practice or not speakingdirectly on the issue of card interchange to comment explicitly onthe amendment to regulate card interchange sponsored by Sen.Richard Durbin (D-Ill.).

"We are disappointed that Senator Durbin has decided to forceunrelated legislation into the financial reform package at theeleventh hour without a hearing or debate," the card brand said ina prepared statement. "Thursday's vote is another step in a lengthylegislative process. We're hopeful that when the issue is fullyreviewed by members of Congress during the next phase ofnegotiations, they will conclude the amendment harms consumers,credit unions and community banks and should be eliminated from thebill."

"Visa will continue to work with policymakers to educate themabout this flawed legislation that imposes price controls on debitproducts and allows retailers to dictate which payment card is usedby consumers at the point of sale," the card brand added.