Legal Counsel
Informing credit union officials on statutory matters and providing guidance to assist credit unions in handling legal matters is a League function significant to every credit union. The League retains legal counsel for authoritative interpretation of state laws, credit union bylaws, and judicial rulings. Also available to credit unions is an extensive index of legal opinion files, allowing credit unions to review prior attorney opinions.

In addition, the League has access to the legal counsel of CUNA for interpretations of federal laws and statutes and their impact on credit union operations.

Legislative Lobbying
Credit unions are creatures of law. They are created as a result of enabling legislation, and they operate under conditions and limitations clearly defined in either state or federal statute. Consequently, League participation in the legislative activity has a direct effect on the operation of credit unions in North Dakota.

The League president is a lobbyist in all state and federal matters. He works very closely with the Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) which is made up of credit union representatives. The GAC reviews and recommends action needed on state and national legislation.

Legislative development, expansion, and protection are key benefits that credit unions receive through League participation. The League’s alliance with CUNA establishes a permanent liaison with national legislators in Washington, DC, and through CUNA’s staff there. In addition, the League participates in national legislative initiatives such as CUNA’s Hike the Hill program and the National GAC Conference.


CUPAC
The Credit Union Political Action Committee (CUPAC) works in conjunction with the national Credit Union Legislative Action Counsel (CULAC) to maintain and enrich the voice of credit unions in the political arena. CUPAC monies are obtained through fundraisers and the soliciting of contributions. One-half of the funds is used in-state to give financial help to the campaigns of credit union legislative friends. The balance is then given to CUNA’s Washington office to assist in the campaign needs of our Congressional leaders in Washington. The Credit Union Political Action Committee has been tremendously important in establishing a close relationship with state and national lawmakers. By communicating with these people, it has made them more aware of credit unions and their roles and purposes.


Legislative Updates
The League communicates regularly during the legislative sessions to keep people apprised of activities regarding the legislature through email and fax notices. The timely information is used to inform credit union legislative representatives, and at times, request action of those persons. You can sign up to receive these communications electronically by subscribing to our legislative alerts email. To receive a user name and password, please contact Audrey at kroll.audrey@ndcu.coop at the League office.

Regulatory Liaison
The League has a close relationship with the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), an agency of the federal government through its Region V office in Austin, Texas. The NCUA regulates federally-insured credit unions in North Dakota. The League also has a close relationship with the North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions which regulates state-chartered credit unions in North Dakota. These close relationships assure credit union representation in all regulatory matters.