Creating Influence

Credit Union Advocacy: Growing Connections with Legislators

Throughout 2017 Georgia credit unions have been actively growing connections with elected leaders – veteran legislators as well as newly elected officials. These efforts create a greater understanding of credit unions for the legislators, and help expand the legislative influence of the industry. The most recent efforts of credit unions include:

  • On December 11th Peach State FCU CEO Marshall Boutwell helped support and attended the event for State Sen. PK Martin (R-Lawrenceville). Also at the event was Gov. Nathan Deal as well as multiple candidates for other offices, including Secretary of State and the state Senate. Boutwell had created a relationship with Sen. Martin before he first ran for office, and credit unions were instrumental in his first election and runoff to push him over the edge to victory in 2014. This relationship has been positive for the industry as Sen. Martin has consistently promoted and advanced bills that matter to credit unions.
  • On December 15th GCUA was invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected State Sen. Nikema Williams (D-Atlanta) in response to the industry efforts to grow a relationship since her special election victory on December 5th. There is the opportunity to create a positive connection to credit unions based on her spouse (a previous staffer/campaigner for U.S. Rep. John Lewis who knows credit unions well), and Sen. Williams has already expressed her appreciation for the industry’s interest and support.
  • And while not in person, credit unions have been in communication with State Rep. Brian Strickland (R-McDonough) and support for his special election candidacy; he is running for the open Senate seat recently vacated by Sen. Rick Jeffares (Senate District 17, which comprises parts of Henry, Newton and Rockdale counties). Rep. Strickland has demonstrated strong support of credit union issues, and will be a strong ally for the industry in the Senate if he is successful in the January 8th

These simple, yet powerful connections can help shape opportunities for the industry in their ability to provide financial services to members. Please see the related article for a full-year perspective of credit union activity to grow influence!

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