WASHINGTON — Credit unions that want more leeway in offering member business loans will have the opportunity to express their thoughts to the NCUA.

In a unanimous vote during the brief meeting last Thursday, the board approved a request for public opinion and recommendations on issues such as loan-to-value ratio, the waiver process and the experience level of those who make decisions on these kinds of loans.

On the loan-to-value ratio issue, the NCUA asked for input regarding whether to lower the borrower equity requirement on construction and development loans from 25% to 20% and whether there should be a regulatory credit limit on business credit cards. The agency said because the C&D loans are the riskiest kind of MBLs, they require "greater regulatory restrictions to ensure safe and sound lending" but is open to other suggestions for easing restrictions as long they address safety and soundness concerns.