The IBA is excited to announce a new format and schedule for our annual regional meetings, which are designed to enhance grassroots communication between bankers and state legislators. First, we’re moving this year's series of meetings from summer to early to mid-November. You’ll also find different programming than we’ve had in the past. We have invited Department of Financial Institutions Director Tom Fite to speak on the state of banking and invited a region-based economic development expert to provide insightful updates. After that will be one of the most popular parts of our previous regional meetings: a complimentary lunch side-by-side with state legislators, offering invaluable networking and opportunities.

Moving forward, legislators will be invited to join us for the entirety of the meeting, beginning at 11:00 AM (local time). As you are aware, the purpose of these meetings and the accompanying lunch remains to foster networking and dialogue between bankers and members of the Indiana General Assembly. Each regional meeting is an ideal setting to establish or strengthen relationships with your legislators and discuss key industry issues.

Although the IBA extends invitations to all legislators, we encourage you to reach out to your representatives and personally invite them to attend. Just as hearing from constituents can influence their positions on bills, getting a direct invitation from a constituent can make them more likely to attend an event like this. You can contact members of the House of Representatives at 317-232-9600 and members of the Senate at 317-232-9400.

The success of these meetings hinges on strong banker participation. If you cannot attend, please consider sending representatives from your bank. Additionally, please remember that attendance by you or one of your employees will count toward your bank's grassroots portion of the Five Star Member goal.