The New York Credit Union Association kicked off its 2021 Virtual Advocacy Tour Tuesday in Albany with remarks from key policy makers as the Association sets out its 2021 legislative priorities.

The event included remarks from Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who called credit unions “the heart and soul of many communities,” saying they uniquely serve local communities and downtown businesses. Hochul also expressed support for credit union personnel safety during the pandemic and support for remote electronic notarization.

Participants also heard from 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, who addressed key issues facing credit unions and financial institutions;
• a legislative briefing and a look at the Association’s 2021 legislative priorities from Joanne Fernandez, the Association’s VP of governmental affairs; and
• a virtual meeting with State Senate Banking Committee Chairman James Sanders Jr. and New York State Assembly Banking Committee Chairman Victor M. Pichardo, to promote the Association’s 2021 legislative priorities.

Virtual meetings with state and federal lawmakers will continue this week 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 event 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.

A recording of the event can be accessed on the Association’s website.