Language to allow banks rent-free access to military installations was not considered during the House Armed Services Committee markup of the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that began Wednesday. The Department of Defense (DOD) has discretionary authority to allow credit unions to use land and space on military bases at a nominal rate, and banks have in the past looked to include language expanding it to include for-profit banks.

CUNA and the Leagues worked closely with the Defense Credit Union Council and National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions to keep the language out of the House and Senate version of the bill.

“Thanks to strong CUNA/League advocacy credit unions successfully demonstrated their value and commitment to military members and families,” said Ryan Donovan, CUNA chief advocacy officer. “There are several steps left in the process, and we will remain engaged as this bill moves closer to the finish line.”

The committee adopted an amendment including language by Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) that would direct the Department of Defense to study the larger issue of financial access to servicemembers on base.

The Senate conducted a closed markup of its version of the FY22 NDAA in July, and language expanding the DOD’s discretionary authority was not included. Once the House passes its version, the two bills will be reviewed by a conference committee which will put together the final package.