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Bill aims to simplify approval process for new banks and credit unions

Passed one chamberH.R. 4544Latest action

Sponsor: Maxine Waters · Representative · CA

AIDecoded by AI · checked against the record
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Official title: American Access to Banking Act

119th Congress

Topics: Jobs & the economy

Introduced:

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

In plain words

The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.

The American Access to Banking Act would streamline how new banks and credit unions get approved and supported.

45-second read · 5 questions answered below

What does this do?

The bill directs federal banking regulators to simplify application forms, cut duplicate paperwork, study startup funding methods, and report progress to Congress annually. It also creates caseworker guidance, mentorship programs, and outreach plans to support new institutions, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Who does it affect?

It mainly affects people or groups seeking to start new banks or credit unions, particularly in rural, minority, or underserved communities. It also affects federal regulators like the FDIC, Federal Reserve, and NCUA, who gain new duties and reporting requirements.

Why does it matter?

The changes would alter how regulators process and support new bank applications, adding administrative responsibilities and oversight requirements for federal agencies.

What does it cost, and who pays?

  • Cuts Fed surplus fund by $24 million
  • Takes effect in 2036
  • Affects internal Fed finances only

AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.

Based on the “Referred in Senate” text of May 21, 2026.

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

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Where does it stand?

  1. IntroducedJul 17, 2025
  2. House committee
  3. House vote
  4. SenateYou are here · May 21, 2026
  5. The president's desk

Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.

Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Data as of October 9, 2026

Recorded votes

Roll-call votes recorded since January 3, 2025.

  1. House · · Roll call 178

    As recorded

    Question
    On Motion to and Pass, as Amended
    Result:
    Passed
    405
    Nay
    4
    0
    21

    Republicans 199 yes, 4 no, 14 not voting · Democrats 205 yes, 7 not voting · Independent 1 yes

    Official record
    How members voted

    The official record lists how each member voted.Official record

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