In the wake of shifting political winds and a dramatic change in regulatory tone from the Trump Administration, compliance officers across the country are rightfully asking: What now?
The agencies have indicated that they plan to rescind proposed changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). Section 1071’s future is uncertain. And many long-anticipated regulations are stalled or suddenly up for reconsideration. The message from Washington seems to be: “We’re rethinking things.” And that leaves many of us in a holding pattern.
But uncertainty is not a reason to slow down. It’s a reason to sharpen up At COMPLIANCE RESOURCE, we firmly believe—just like Benjamin Franklin once said—“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” And few understood the value of ongoing improvement better than Franklin himself. He once told the story of a man who was willing to grind his ax to a perfect polish—until he realized the time and effort it would take. Eventually, the man gave up, saying he “liked a speckled ax best.” Franklin used this parable to illustrate how easy it is to settle for “good enough” when the real work begins.
We get it. It’s tempting to wait it out and assume there’s nothing more to do until Washington gives clearer direction. But that mindset leads to a dull edge. This is your moment—not to disengage, but to sharpen the saw.
Here’s why continued training matters—especially now:
The Landscape May Shift Again (And Quickly)
Regulatory slowdowns are rarely permanent. Court decisions, leadership changes, or shifts in public sentiment can reignite momentum overnight. Compliance teams who are trained and prepared won’t have to scramble when that moment comes.
Your Institution’s Standards Haven’t Changed
Regardless of what may or may not be enforced tomorrow, your bank or credit union still has a responsibility to your customers, your community, and your board to meet high standards of compliance and ethics today. Training ensures your staff understands the “why” behind compliance—not just the letter of the law, but the spirit too.
This Is the Ideal Time to Strengthen Fundamentals
When you are not in reaction mode, you’re in preparation mode. Now is your opportunity to focus on core areas – updating CRA strategies, enhancing your documentation, reassessing fair lending risk, audit readiness, risk assessments, and preparing for future 1071 implementation—whenever it does arrive.
Your Team’s Growth Is a Strategic Asset
Great compliance officers aren’t built in crisis—they’re built over time. A lull in regulatory activity is the perfect time to invest in your team’s growth, whether that’s through webinars, workshops, internal knowledge-sharing, or certifications. Today’s training is tomorrow’s advantage.
Franklin didn’t believe in shortcuts, and neither do we. As the landscape shifts, your best move is to keep sharpening—not settle for a “speckled ax.” Train. Improve. Stay ready. Because one thing we can promise: This too will change. And when it does, those who’ve kept their edge won’t need to catch up—they’ll be leading the way. Those who’ve stayed ready won’t need to get ready!