Local credit union leaders met with California Assemblymember John Harabedian (D-Pasadena, Assembly District 41) this week at First City Credit Union for a dialogue reflecting on the assemblymember’s first year representing San Gabriel Valley communities in Sacramento.

Harabedian acknowledged the quick role that local credit unions played in supporting his constituents and communities impacted by the windstorms and wildfires across Los Angeles County earlier this year. He highlighted how credit unions delivered essential financial aid and services, such as low-interest emergency loans, payment forbearance, and direct financial assistance, acting as important first responders in the economic recovery of families and small businesses.

The conversation also touched on some of California’s emerging issues, emphasizing proactive legislation and partnering with credit unions to learn more about communities. A portion of the discussion focused on the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and its regulatory challenges, particularly how new technologies are impacting consumers.

Additionally, the assemblymember discussed the work credit unions are accomplishing to protect vulnerable older adults from financial abuse and fraud schemes, highlighting Harabedian and credit unions’ joint commitment to consumer safety.

“We want to thank First City Credit Union for hosting this insightful session and providing a venue for Assemblymember Harabedian and credit union leaders to meaningfully engage,” said Madison Lee, advocacy specialist for California’s Credit Unions. “Once again, we were able to display our commitment to partnering with Harabedian and other state legislators in fostering financially secure communities across the 41st Assembly District and others in the state.”