CUNA and Leagues support the Senate Fair Hiring in Banking Act (H.R. 5025), introduced by Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.V., Thom Tillis, R-N.C., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Chris Coons, D-Del. The bill would allow for greater employment opportunities at federally insured financial institutions by reducing barriers to employment based on past criminal offenses.

“This legislation would expand employment opportunities and provide a second chance to individuals looking to move past minor criminal offenses that can too often be a barrier. Recruiting employees and retaining talent is an important priority, particularly for credit unions continuously in search of employees committed to the credit union difference,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. “Thank you to Sens. Manchin, Tillis, Coons, and Van Hollen for their bipartisan leadership on this issue.”

Leagues support the bill as well, which passed the House in May.

“Existing industry restrictions on hiring people who have moved beyond certain offenses are excessive, especially in today’s job market. While trust is a top priority for credit unions, so too is opportunity for those who want to help deliver trusted service to our members and communities,” said Carolinas Credit Union League President/CEO Dan Schline. “We appreciate Senator Tillis for his leadership in removing an unnecessary barrier and bringing much needed flexibility for financial institutions as they work to recruit and hire well-qualified employees.”

“We support Senator Manchin’s introduction of S. 5025, The Fair Hiring in Banking Act to reduce employment barriers for our fellow West Virginians seeking a second chance,” said West Virginia Credit Union League President/CEO Rich Schaffer.

“Offering a second chance to those who have paid their debt to society for a youthful or minor indiscretion opens the doors of opportunity,” said John Bratsakis, president/CEO, MD|DC Credit Union Association. “We support the bill being co-sponsored by Sen. Van Hollen which will ease the path forward for individuals who might otherwise face obstacles to employment.”

“Second chances are at the heart of the American dream; we know this in the credit union family," said Maurice W. Dawkins, president/CEO of American Spirit Federal Credit Union, Neward, Del. "This bill provides the mechanism and safeguards necessary to enable individuals previously precluded by a minor criminal record to be part of the financial empowerment and opportunities that Credit Union creates. This bill is a step in the right direction regarding equity and inclusion.”