The Senate was back in session Monday after a two-week break.  However, according to CUNA Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs Ryan Donovan, before lawmakers vote on raising the member business lending cap, they will likely first address changes to the U.S. Postal Service, which could have a direct effect on credit union budgets and compliance.

Donovan said one possible change to the USPS could be the reduction in delivery service from six days a week to five.

“There has been some concern that might impact credit unions in terms of having to send things to borrowers or members within a certain amount of time,” the CUNA lobbyist said, adding “but most would expect corresponding changes in regulatory requirements.”

Another impact would be new laws that make it easier for the USPS to raise postage rates, affecting credit union budgets for mailing statements and other required notices to members. However, Donovan said technology like estatements will make that less of an issue in the future.

CUNA Chief Economist Bill Hampel said postage is a fixed budget item for credit unions, and postage hikes have not historically been a big issue.