Over 65 Georgia credit union advocates descended on the state Capitol this week on January 23rd for the 10th anniversary of the state GAC/Grassroots Academy! The 2018 legislative term is already shaping up to be a chaotic session packed with legislative issues of interest to credit unions, and this event was the window for credit unions to learn about those issues and people, and what the industry can do to impact them.
Attendees heard firsthand from state leaders on what to anticipate in the legislative arena, gain the insider’s perspective on the political environment, and obtain tools to grow their credit unions’ legislative influence. The day included a packed agenda of insight from key influencers on the federal, state, regulatory, media, campaigns, and policy creation perspective:
- U.S. Congressman Rob Woodall (R-7) on the political environment in Washington, D.C., and how credit unions have made an impact.
- Commissioner of the Department of Banking and Finance Kevin Hagler on what credit unions can anticipate from the Department and the state legislative process.
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution political reporter Greg Bluestein on his perspective of covering the Capitol, what political forces are in play and how those impact the state, and what to expect in the upcoming elections.
- Political strategist and campaign veteran Tharon Johnson on the potential outcome and impact of the 2018 elections, and how grassroots efforts can make a difference.
- Kelly McCutchen, President/CEO of the Ga Public Policy Foundation, on how Georgians can make an impact on public policy and how his nonpartisan research institute leverages grassroots strength for issues.
- House Minority Leader Rep. Bob Trammel (D-Luthersville) on guiding the Democratic Caucus and its legislative priorities, and what it’s like serving in the citizen legislature.
- Senate Banking Chairman William Ligon (R-Brunswick) on what key issues credit unions may expect in the 2018 session, and how to play a vital role in the process.
This day provided credit unions a thorough understanding of the legislative issues facing credit unions, insight into the 2018 elections, and provided the tools for credit unions to shape the future for the industry. Please utilize the hashtag #CUGrassroots on social media to see the day as it unfolded.
