2026 CCBN Lobby Day

Standing Up for California’s Community Banks

Community banks are deeply rooted in California’s communities, providing relationship-based banking for small businesses, farmers, nonprofits, and underserved populations. CCBN Lobby Day brings community bank leaders to the Capitol to share why locally focused banking matters—and how state policy decisions impact access to credit across California.

Why It Matters

Community banks operate differently than large national institutions:

• Local lending decisions made by people who know their communities

• Personalized service for small businesses and first-time borrowers

• Stable, relationship-based lending that supports local economies

• Longstanding investment in affordable housing and community growth

The Challenge

Many state-level financial services proposals are designed with large banks in mind, creating unintended consequences for community banks—especially California-chartered institutions. These policies can lead to disproportionate compliance burdens, uneven competition, and reduced local lending capacity.

Our Focus

CCBN advocates for fair, thoughtful policymaking that:

• Preserves a strong and competitive state banking charter

• Avoids duplicative or conflicting regulations

• Recognizes the unique role community banks play in local communities

Our Ask

Engage with community banks early, consider real-world impacts, and ensure state policies support—rather than undermine—locally focused financial institutions.

Community banks aren’t asking for special treatment—just a level playing field and the ability to continue serving California’s communities.