Banking bill raises community investment cap from 15% to 20%

What does this do?

HR 5913 raises the maximum share of capital and surplus that national banks and certain state banks may invest in public welfare projects from 15% to 20%. This applies to investments in areas such as affordable housing, community development, and economic programs in low-income areas. The bill does not require banks to invest more — it only raises the permitted ceiling.

Who does it affect?

National banks, state member banks, and the communities where public welfare investments are directed — often lower-income neighborhoods — are most directly affected. The Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Reserve would also gain broader authority to approve larger investments in this category.

Why does it matter?

Raising the cap gives banking regulators more flexibility to approve higher levels of community-focused investment than current law allows. Communities in low-income areas could see larger or more frequent investments in things like affordable housing and small business lending programs, depending on whether individual banks choose to invest more.

Where does it stand?