What Problems?

We received a news release from the American Bankers Association recently about a survey that was taken at their National Conference for Community Bankers. It was about regulations, and how big a problem they really are.

It was interesting to note that the regulations perceived to be the biggest problems are the Community Reinvestment Act, the Truth in Savings Act and the Truth in Lending Act. Reg O came next, followed by Bank Secrecy, Reg CC , with ADA last.

It was of special interest to us, because the bankers surveyed by ABA for this study are from the highest levels of banking. Problems with regulations are often different in other parts of the financial institution. The sequence of the regulations that are the biggest problems would probably be different among our readers. It's our guess that TISA would be a leader, as would BSA. Reg O, (which covers loans to executive officers, directors and principal shareholders) more than likely would not even make the list.

Surveys like these are important, however, because they tell leaders of the industry what the concerns are. And when 25%-one in four-of the 95 respondents said they have seriously considered surrendering their bank charter due to the level of regulatory burden, there is something that needs to be fixed.

Congress members are readers
Two years ago we added both the House and the Senate Banking Committee members to our complimentary mailing list. We're gratified that we have heard from several of them about items they've read in the HOTLINE. The members of these Committees want to stay informed in order to make more intelligent decisions concerning the banking industry. We're pleased to be a source of their information. They also want to know bankers' concerns and opinions.

We've started a new year with a new administration that has promised many things. We'd like our readers' opinions, concerns, and comments to be carefully considered by this new Congress.

To help accomplish that, we've included a questionnaire with this newsletter. It will only take you a few minutes to fill it out-and we would consider it a personal favor. Won't you stop, right now, and do it? If more than one person from your shop wants to respond, make a copy of the questions and send it along. We'll be glad to get it. Sign the questionnaire if you wish, or send it anonymously.

After you complete the questionnaire, please drop it in the mail or, if it's easier, fax it to us. The address and numbers are on the form. We'll pass along your opinions and your comments, and will publish the results in a future newsletter.

Thanks!

Copyright © 1993 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 3, No. 10, 3/93