Washington was closed for business when dozens of Indiana bankers landed for the IBA’s Annual Washington Trip. Just as community bankers continue to serve your customers, 42 of your fellow Hoosier bankers still joined IBA government relations staff and 16 associate members to meet with federal regulators and Indiana’s congressional delegation, including Sen. Jim Banks and Rep. Marlin Stutzman, who serve on their respective chamber’s banking committee, as well as Sen. Todd Young and Rep. Jefferson Shreve. Bankers were also briefed by experts from the American Bankers Association and Independent Community Bankers of America on key policies and regulations being debated in Washington.

Your colleagues advocated for positive movement in Section 1071 rulemaking for small business lending data collection and reporting, 1033 data aggregation, deposit insurance reform, digital assets and stablecoin, and more.

The theme of this year’s trip centered on the growing challenges facing the banking industry in both policy and regulation. Despite these hurdles, our members demonstrated resilience, skillfully navigating complex issues while educating lawmakers and regulators. The timing of the trip, amid heightened engagement with key policymakers, could not have been more critical. It is essential that the voices of bankers, those most affected by regulatory changes, continue to be heard even – and especially – when the halls of Congress are silent.

The trip wasn’t all business. We managed a private tour of the National Portrait Gallery. Bankers also enjoyed time together dining around D.C. on Sunday and Monday evenings. The event was capped with a dinner and cocktail hour hosted by the ICBA at its new headquarters alongside President & CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey and other senior leadership, and Rep. Stutzman.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the members who participated in this year’s fly-in. We recognize the personal sacrifices made to attend and deeply appreciate your dedication to advancing the banking industry. Your involvement strengthens the entire banking community.