Credit Union National Association said Thursday members will decide whether to continue the practice of requiring membership in both the national association and a state or regional credit union league—an announcement coming roughly three months after CUNA's board of directors rejected the idea.

The credit union industry has faced a wave on consolidations in recent years, and as a result some members have begun to question the expense of belonging to both CUNA and a state credit union league. A task force formed by CUNA's board recommended several changes to the association's structure in response to industry changes, but board members rejected most of those suggestions during a meeting in September, including ending the duel membership requirement.

The board's decision touched off a storm of controversy, according to news reports. Some credit unions loudly criticized the board's decision while others argued for retaining the membership requirement. Now CUNA is reversing course. In a video announcement, CUNA CEO Jim Nussle told members his staff is drafting new bylaws that will first be reviewed by the board before being put to the membership for a vote.

"These changes recognize that new market forces and the increasing expectations of membership demand more direct accountability between credit unions and CUNA," Nussle said.

One possible change is allowing credit unions to belong to CUNA without membership in a state league. However, CUNA is urging members to retain that connection in practice, saying the industry is stronger when the national association and state leagues work together. Other possible changes include allowing the board to set its own size and leaving room for the creation of non-voting membership categories in the future.

"We need to be more inclusive," Nussle said. "Every credit union is a potential member and needs to be made to feel welcome and engaged."

CUNA did not release a timeline for when the revised bylaws would be put to a vote. The association also announced earlier this year it was lowering dues but did not give specifics. http://bit.ly/1Z3qCxL

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