With the general election just days away, New York credit union advocates are encouraged to lend their support to CUPAC, the state Credit Union Political Action Committee.

In the coming years, New York State will be debating issues ranging from mortgage forbearance to data security that will have a direct impact on all credit unions — both federal and state charters. Additionally, banks are expected to ramp up their ongoing assaults on the credit union movement.

In addition to the New York Credit Union Association’s year-round advocacy efforts, CUPAC can help ensure a positive political environment for New York credit unions.

Individual contributions to CUPAC are directed in a bipartisan manner to help elect candidates for state office who support a pro-credit union agenda and reflect the ideals and values of the credit union movement. Contributions to CUPAC help protect the interests of credit unions in New York and ensure that credit unions have a voice in state government.

This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has made CUPAC fundraising exponentially more difficult without in-person events, leaving CUPAC facing a significant funding shortfall, according to the board of trustees.

“Your support can go a long way in helping CUPAC as we continue fighting for pro-credit union candidates from across the political spectrum in New York,” the CUPAC board of trustees said in a recent letter to credit union employees and volunteers. “As a member of the credit union movement, you are a critical part of our industry, and our industry needs your support.”

Contributions to CUPAC can be made by visiting the CUPAC donation page.

Contributions to CUPAC are not tax deductible. Rules for state political fundraising require us to record the name and address of anyone who donates, and if the donor contributes more than $99 per year, we are also required to disclose the donor’s name and address to the New York State Board of Elections.