The New York Credit Union Association’s 2021 Virtual Advocacy Tour kicks off today at 1 p.m. in Albany.

The event will include remarks from Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul in addition to key state and federal legislative updates and meetings with influential policymakers in state government, including:

• featured speaker Raymond J. Dorado, senior deputy superintendent for the Banking Division, New York State Department of Financial Services;
• a legislative briefing from Joanne Fernandez, the Association’s VP of governmental affairs;
• a virtual meeting with State Senate Banking Committee Chairman James Sanders Jr.; and
• a virtual meeting with New York State Assembly Banking Committee Chairman Victor M. Pichardo.

Virtual meetings with state and federal lawmakers will continue through the week of Feb. 22 and throughout the month of March as part of the Association’s state advocacy efforts and the virtual CUNA Governmental Affairs Conference, which will virtually bring together credit union advocates from across the country. Details about the Association’s Hike the Hill event beginning Feb. 23 and a registration link can be accessed on the Association’s website.

CUNA GAC, which is held annually in Washington, D.C., will feature general sessions, a virtual trade show and meetings with Congressional leaders.