22 MARCH / APRIL 2019 FLD FOCUS By early February, about a month into the 2019 Legislative Session, the IBA Government Relations Team had reviewed more than 1,300 bills industryrelated that were filed for consideration. Where do these bills come from, and why are they created? Indiana’s part-time legislature includes members from a wide array of careers and backgrounds, and only a handful of legislators have any significant background in banking operations. The varying backgrounds, as well as legislative requests from advocacy groups, constituents and individual legislators, produce ideas that turn into bills. With more and more ideas being put into bill form, it has never been more important for the banking industry to focus on grassroots advocacy today, as well as into the future. One of the major initiatives of the IBA’s Future Leadership Division is to engage FLD members in grassroots advocacy causes. The IBA has fortunately had an effective government relations program in the past, due in large part to long-time members who have actively built relationships with elected officials, supported Indiana BANKPAC and made themselves available to contact their legislators or visit with them as issues arise. In order for that effectiveness to continue, however, we must find a way to get our future bank leaders involved now. That’s why it is our goal to increase the involvement of the FLD in IBA grassroots calls to action and advocacy events, including the Legislative Briefing and Reception, FLD Day at the Statehouse, Regional Meetings and the IBA Annual Washington Trip. Getting involved in IBA grassroots advocacy will have a positive impact on anyone looking to be a more effective leader within their institution. The following are three reasons you should consider getting involved in 2019 and beyond: 1. Build your network. Involvement in grassroots advocacy is one of the best ways to build your network and get to know banking industry leaders and elected officials. Although there is competition among banks in the state, when bankers attend IBA grassroots events, everyone shares a common goal of positively impacting the banking industry and bank customers. There is no better way to network with IBA-member bank presidents and executive-level bankers, other FLD members, associate members and IBA staff. In addition to banking contacts, the connections you build with legislators will have a positive impact for your bank and community. 2. Increase your banking knowledge. Attending IBA grassroots events and participating in grassroots advocacy initiatives will deepen your understanding of important banking issues that are vital to your bank and your career. For a better understanding of state issues, the IBA Legislative Briefing and Reception allows you to learn about the latest banking topics being discussed at the Indiana Statehouse. While this event has already taken place for 2019, the IBA Insighter is still available on a weekly basis to keep you informed. In October, the IBA Annual Washington Trip will provide an opportunity for you to attend two days of meetings where federal banking issues will be discussed in-depth with the American Bankers Association, Independent Community Bankers of America, federal regulators and legislators. Understanding these issues will allow you to be a valuable resource at your bank for others who might be interested in the latest advocacy efforts. In addition, attending these events will allow you to see firsthand how long-time IBA members interact and communicate with policymakers, which will enhance your ability to carry on the IBA’s grassroots effectiveness in the future. 3. Experience new opportunities. Participating in IBA grassroots advocacy events will allow you to experience new opportunities and insider access to special places. In the last couple of years, those who have attended IBA grassroots events have had the opportunity to: visit the chambers of U.S. House of Josh Myers Assistant Vice President - Member Engagement Indiana Bankers Association jmyers@indianabankers.org @joshmyersIN Future Leaders Get engaged and lead
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