Since the earliest days of American history, concerns about tax policy have prompted individuals and groups to express their opinions, sometimes in dramatic ways. The Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union has never dumped tea into a harbor, but its political awakening began when Congress considered imposing taxes on credit unions.

Comment letters, congressional testimony and in-person visits with lawmakers in Washington are key components of a concerted strategy to kill, delay implementation of or at the least modify the Federal Reserve’s proposed rule on debit interchange fees.

WASHINGTON — Two credit union advocates told lawmakers today that the increased regulatory burden faced by the industry was hurting the ability of institutions to serve their members.

WASHINGTON — The debit interchange rule and other new requirements on credit cards and mortgages will make it harder for credit unions to serve their members, according to Bill Cheney and John Buckley.

WASHINGTON — Saying that there needs to be a balance between providing strong oversight and not stifling innovation, NCUA Board Member Gigi Hyland today endorsed a proposal that would require regulatory agencies to eliminate a regulation every time it issues a new one.

WASHINGTON — House Financial Services Committee Chairman Spencer Bachus urged credit union advocates to lobby members of Congress, especially in the Sentate, to lessen the impact of the Federal Reserve's proposal on debit interchange.

WASHINGTON — House Speaker John Boehner promised that the House will work hard to ease the regulatory burden so credit unions can lend more money and businesses can create new jobs.

WASHINGTON — Saying that it is a “no brainer,” Sen. Mark Udall announced today he would renew his push for legislation to raise the cap on member business loans.