Pub. 6 2016-2017 Issue 1

O V E R A C E N T U R Y : B U I L D I N G B E T T E R B A N K S - H E L P I N G C O L O R A D A N S R E A L I Z E D R E A M S July • August 2016 5 This is an important election year for the banking industry, and with it comes the opportunity to make an impact for the future. Control of the Colorado State Senate and House are at stake, whichwill have a direct impact on the Colorado business community and economy. A new President will be elected this year, whowill ultimatelymake appointments to numerous gov- ernment positions, including naming a replacement Director for the CFPB when Director Cordray’s term expires. Control of the U.S. Senate and House are also at stake, which will have a direct impact on the ability to achieve regulatory reform. The onslaught of bad business bills during the last weeks of the 2016 Colorado Legislative session demonstrated the importance of having a split and balanced State legislature. At the federal level, gridlock continues to exist onmoving forward with reasonable, responsible regulatory reform. Whether bad bills are introduced intentionally for use against the opposing political party, or inaction occurs for fear of having to answer tough questions during a political campaign, the people in our State and our communities are ultimately the ones harmed. We deserve better from our elected officials. We need political representation that is balanced, willing to listen and willing to make the correct decision, not the easy, politically popular choice. We need political leaders who are fiscally responsible and understand the consequences of burdensome laws on the economy, businesses and individu- als. We need representation that is willing to compromise in order to achieve the most beneficial outcome for the State, our communities and our industry. We need to hold them accountable when they do not follow through with what they say they will do. Let’s help shape the future for all of us through active en- gagement in the political process. On the financial side, you can participate in fundraising for candidates who support our industry and communities, either through direct contributions or contributing to the CBA PAC. Make contributions to issue committees to provide support for or against ballot initiatives. You can also participate at the federal level through Friends of Traditional Banking to support candidates in key races that can assist in moving regulatory reform forward. Active engagement goes beyond financially funding can - didates and issue committees. Educate and engage others within your organization and communities to understand the importance of having a balanced legislature and the negative impacts to the community when bad legislation advances. Educate themon important issues and the negative or positive consequences of ballot initiatives. Volunteer for campaigns. Make yourself available as an information resource to candi- dates and elected officials. The Colorado Bankers Association is an excellent resource to educate ourselves on the ins and outs of industry and policy advocacy. Attend a class. Participate in events and programs. Become a CBA advocate through its yearlong training practi- cum in government relations. Most importantly, let your voice be heard on Election Day. The time is now. It is often said that “if you’re not at the table, you’re prob- ably on the menu.” Let’s work together to ensure that our industry’s voice is heard. I look forward to working with you and advocating for our industry in the upcoming year. Thank you for all that you do for your institutions and communities. The Colorado economy would not be as strong as it is today without you. n David Kelly First Bank CBA Chairman Important Election Year for Banking Industry