DCUC Applauds House Passage of Government Funding, Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Military Pay

WASHINGTON, DC – The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for promptly passing the government spending bill to end the government shutdown and a continuing resolution to address Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding. ​

“While DCUC is reassured to see a lengthy shutdown has been avoided, we remain concerned about ongoing funding debates that continue to place military pay at risk,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO, Retired USAF Colonel. “We will continue to engage Congress on the importance of enacting solutions and proactive measures to address these risks.” 
 
Hernandez added, “Recent DHS funding debates once again highlighted how Coast Guard members are uniquely vulnerable during these lapses, which reinforces the need for Congress to carefully examine and address the unintended impacts funding disruptions have on those who serve our country.” 
 
DCUC continues to highlight to Congressional leaders the critical role credit unions serve in supporting military members and their families during times of fiscal uncertainty. 
 
“Across the nation, credit unions continue to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to service by stepping up to protect and support the financial well-being of communities impacted by shutdowns,” said Jason Stverak, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer. “This dedication reflects the credit union movement’s deep respect for the duty and sacrifice of service members and their unwavering commitment to our nation’s mission.” 
 
Stverak continued, adding, “Our members have remained fully engaged through DCUC’s Military Advocacy Committee, receiving real-time updates and ensuring proactive measures are in place to deliver immediate relief to those affected.” 
 
DCUC’s letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer last week stressed how credit unions continue to serve as leading financial institutions, supporting military families by offering 0% interest emergency loans, paycheck advances, fee waivers, payment deferrals, and free financial counseling. 
 
“Emergency assistance from financial institutions is only a stopgap. Temporary relief programs, while compassionate and necessary, are no substitute for the assurance of a regular paycheck,” Stverak wrote. 
 
DCUC will continue working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to advance policies that safeguard military pay and provide stability for all who serve. ​