Senator Max Baucus

Hi everybody. Max Baucus here. I’ve got to tell you when many of you came to Washington DC not long ago, you were a lot of fun in my conference room. I really appreciated seeing you. Right now I wish I could return the favor and be with you in Billings today to celebrate your 75th Annual Meeting. You’re just a good bunch of folks. I recognize that more than one-third of Montanans are members of credit unions. That includes me. I’m a member.

So I want to thank Tracie and all of you gathering there today for your commitment to Montana communities. I understand this year’s theme is Credit Unions — Superheroes For Those In Need. I know you are superheroes, I know you’ve been especially busy this week with tax season wrapping up. Man, it’s been an awful lot of time and stuff and deadlines run this country. And deadlines are certainly part of the tax season. But your efforts through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program each year helps nearly 2,000 Montana families get back almost $2 million in tax refunds from the IRS and almost $500,000 in state income tax refunds. That’s money directly into the hands of working Montanans who will pump it back into our economy by buying groceries, gas, and other essentials for their family. It’s tough right now for Montana families, and I truly appreciate all you do to keep our communities thriving. Even in these uncertain times, Montana’s communities know they can count on our local Montana credit unions. I look forward to continuing to work with you, to serve the people of Montana. Enjoy the rest of your conference and have a great time.