ICBA: Latest credit union acquisition highlights need for tax policy change

After another tax-paying community bank was reportedly acquired by a billion-dollar credit union, ICBA said Congress should discuss credit union tax and regulatory exemptions.

Details: In a national news release, ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey noted taxpayers will be subsidizing a deal resulting in an organization with assets approaching $2 billion, harming small businesses and reducing lending capacity.

Media Attention: A recent Barron’s article highlighted the positive role of community banks in their communities in contrast to large credit unions.

Illusionists Campaign: ICBA’s The Illusionists media campaign spotlights how large credit unions grow through acquisitions and regulatory advantages while accountability, tax fairness, and consumer choice disappear.

Resources for Community Bankers:

• ICBA’s The Illusionists website features a video, frequently asked questions, and additional information on how community banks outperform credit unions in meeting the needs of local communities and the policy disparities that demand reform.

• Community bankers can submit a “Get the Facts” form on the website to receive an “Illusionists” playbook that offers a framework for elevating the issue at the local level.

Public Support: ICBA polling released this year found 58% of U.S. adults say Congress should investigate whether credit union tax and regulatory exemptions are still warranted.