American Access to Banking Act
Last recorded step: House, May 21, 2026.
Nothing scheduled on the calendars we hold.
This bill would require federal regulators to streamline the application process and provide support for forming new banks and credit unions.
This summary may be out of date
Last regenerated The bill has had legislative action since.
What it does
This bill would require federal financial regulators to streamline the application process for establishing new depository institutions and credit unions. Regulators would be tasked with reviewing capital-raising methods for these new institutions and, upon request, providing applicants with a dedicated caseworker and a list of potential mentor institutions. Additionally, each regulator would develop engagement plans to help states and stakeholders navigate the regulatory process.
Who is affected
This bill affects federal financial regulators, who are required to streamline application processes and engage with stakeholders. It also impacts organizers of new depository institutions and credit unions, as well as applicants seeking to form these entities. Additionally, existing financial institutions may be affected if they choose to serve as mentors to new institutions during the application process.
Key provisions
- Streamlining the application process for new financial institutions. Federal financial regulators are required to review and simplify the application procedures for establishing new depository institutions or credit unions. This includes coordinating with other agencies to minimize redundant information requests from applicants.
- Review of capital-raising requirements. Regulators must examine how new financial institutions raise capital and evaluate the impact of existing restrictions on these processes while ensuring investor protections are maintained.
- Applicant assistance and mentorship. Upon request, regulators must assign a caseworker to assist an applicant through the process and provide a list of similar institutions that may serve as mentors.
- State and stakeholder engagement plans. Each regulator is tasked with developing a plan to engage with states and stakeholders to help interested parties better understand the regulatory processes involved in forming new institutions.
Fiscal impact
- H.R. 4544, American Access to Banking Act· As reported by the House Committee on Financial Services on September 8, 2025
Effective dates
Not applicable: Official Summary does not address effective dates
Relationship to existing law
Not applicable: Bill establishes wholly new authority with no reference to prior law
Stated purpose
The bill aims to simplify the establishment of new depository institutions and credit unions by requiring federal regulators to streamline application processes and improve coordination between agencies. It further seeks to assist applicants through dedicated caseworkers, mentorship opportunities, and enhanced stakeholder engagement to navigate regulatory requirements and capital-raising restrictions.