The Minnesota Credit Union Network is the latest to hostlegislators to discuss industry issues including raising the memberbusiness lending cap.

The Sept. 27-28 meetings were held with Congressman Tim Walz(D-Minn.) and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) The conversationsfocused on the Small Business Lending Enhancement Act (H.R. 1418and S. 509), which would increase the MBL cap from 12.25% of assets to 27.5%, accordingto the network.

Speaking at the $104 million Accentra CU in Austin, Minn., Walzindicated that he has heard stories of small businesses that arestruggling to obtain loans.

Meanwhile, credit unions continued the conversation about MBLsduring a meeting with Klobuchar at the $1.3 billion Affinity Plus FCU in St. Paul. The group emphasized theimportance of the business lending legislation and highlighted thepotential benefits this legislation could have on the Minnesotaeconomy, the league said.

The discussion also focused on the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform& Consumer Protection Act. Attendees provided Klobuchar insightinto the time and resources credit unions are dedicating to complywith these new regulations.

Minnesota credit union representatives also emphasized thatdespite increased regulations and the potential ramifications ofthe interchange amendment, credit unions remain dedicated tokeeping fees low for consumers, the MnCUN said.

The Sept. 27-28 meetings closely followed a Hikethe Hill trip by Minnesota credit unions and the MnCUN toWashington.