This fall, the Indiana Bankers Association hosted over 80 bankers in Washington, D.C., for the IBA’s Annual Washington Trip. This fly-in remains one of the most impactful components of the Association’s national political engagement, offering bankers prime opportunities to meet with and educate regulators and legislators who significantly influence the banking industry.

The trip coincided with pivotal national discussions, as Congress faced the potential of a government shutdown unless a spending resolution was passed — fortunately, it passed during our time in D.C. Bankers expressed gratitude to Indiana’s congressional delegation for their ongoing support and rallied behind key issues, including the Access to Credit for Our Rural Economy (ACRE) Act and the Homebuyer’s Privacy Protection Act. They also voiced the industry’s strong opposition to the Credit Card Competition Act, often referred to as “Durbin 2.0.”

During the trip, bankers were briefed by experts from the American Bankers Association and the Independent Community Bankers of America on key policies and regulations being debated in Washington. In addition to meetings on Capitol Hill, the group held discussions with high-ranking officials, including Susan Torzilli, assistant director of the Division of Consumer and Community Affairs at the Federal Reserve; Travis Hill, vice chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; deputy comptrollers from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; and the deputy assistant director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

IBA members were particularly effective in advocating for revisions to Section 1071, emphasizing its implementation challenges and addressing concerns about the CFPB’s Section 1033 rule, which requires data providers, including banks, to make certain information electronically accessible. These rules pose significant compliance costs, raising concerns within the industry. Further issues were brought to regulators, including the administration and regulators’ approach to overdraft fees, proposed climate risk management regulations, the implications of a central bank digital currency, and federal regulation of digital currencies like stablecoins.

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.

The trip wasn’t all business. We began with a dinner at the historic Hamilton, followed by a (slightly overcast) moonlit tour of the national monuments in D.C., setting the stage for a memorable experience. Another dinner at the Capitol Hill Club featured special guests, including Sen. Braun and Congressman Jim Baird. The next morning, Sen. Braun’s office arranged a private tour of the U.S. Capitol, providing a unique and unforgettable highlight.

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.