Government legislation is now making its way across Capitol Hill that could drive small financial institutions out of the debit card business.
The Durbin Amendment, included in the Financial Reform Bill, was created by Illinois Senator Dick Durbin and recently passed the U.S. Senate.
The amendment shifts costs from “big box” merchants (such as Wal-Mart and Target) to YOU, the consumer. How? By dictating that the Federal Reserve set the rate these merchants pay for acceptance of debit cards. It also allows merchants to discriminate based on card type or issuing institution. Not surprisingly, this amendment was crafted by large retailers.
What does this mean? Ultimately, higher payment card costs and fewer choices for consumers. Legislation similar to this was implemented in Australia recently, and consumers wound up paying MORE for payment cards. In addition, there has been no evidence that merchants passed on to consumers any savings resulting from the new legislation.
One other note: if this legislation goes through, you might be surprised at check-out when your transaction is denied. Why? The amendment also allows merchants to set minimum/maximum transaction amounts for payment cards. Stores would not be required to disclose this information.
Credit unions are not the only organizations against such anti-consumer legislation. Community banks are against it as well. Both the Independent Community Bankers of America and the Credit Union National Association have noted that the amendment would “significantly harm thousands of community banks and credit unions.” Other opposition includes the National Black Chamber of Commerce and the Latino Coalition.
Passage of this legislation would NOT be good news …. unless you’re Wal-Mart, Target or some other large retailer. As a concerned consumer you should contact your representative(s) and express your displeasure with this amendment/bill. Simply state that you oppose the anti-consumer amendment offered by Senator Durbin.
To find your local and/or federal representatives, visit this Web site:
http://www.senate.mo.gov/llookup/leg_lookup.aspx
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