To amend the Federal Reserve Act to establish a permanent Bank Term Funding Program to provide member banks and other depository institutions with short-term liquidity against long-term assets.
Impact
The enactment of HB3242 would directly influence state financial practices by allowing local banks and depository institutions better access to emergency liquidity. This could enhance the stability of the banking sector by providing a reliable source for financial institutions during times of economic stress. Additionally, this funding program could help mitigate risks associated with long-term asset holdings, which may be tied up under adverse market conditions, thereby promoting a healthier financial environment in the state.
Summary
House Bill 3242 aims to amend the Federal Reserve Act by establishing a permanent Bank Term Funding Program. This program is designed to provide member banks and other depository institutions with short-term liquidity in exchange for long-term assets. The bill outlines specific requirements for the advances, such as ensuring that they do not exceed the value of the collateral pledged and are available for up to one year with a fixed interest rate. This initiative could play a pivotal role in stabilizing financial institutions facing liquidity constraints, ensuring they have access to necessary funds to manage their operations effectively.
Contention
Although the bill seeks to provide essential support to financial institutions, some critics may argue about the long-term implications of such a program. Concerns may arise regarding the potential for moral hazard, where banks may engage in riskier lending behaviors knowing they have a safety net. Opponents could also raise issues related to the governance of the program, questioning how the Federal Reserve will manage and oversee the terms of these loans to prevent misuse or excessive borrowing that could lead to greater issues within the financial ecosystem.
Federal Infrastructure Bank Act of 2023 This bill establishes the Federal Infrastructure Bank and the Federal Infrastructure Bank Holding Company (FIBHC). The bank shall be a wholly owned subsidiary of the FIBHC. The bank must provide equity investments, direct loans, and loan guarantees for the planning, predevelopment, design, construction, operation or maintenance of infrastructure projects in the United States with sufficient revenue sources and guarantees to support the interest and principal payments to the bank. At least 10% of the loans, equity investments, and loan guarantees must be for infrastructure projects in rural areas. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System shall have oversight and supervisory authority over the FIBHC and the bank. The bank must establish an Infrastructure Guarantee Fund to cover loans and loan guarantees in the event of nonpayment by loan recipients. The bill provides for a taxpayer credit in an amount equal to 10% of the amount such taxpayer paid to the FIBHC for an equity investment at its original issue.
A bill to amend the Federal Reserve Act to prohibit the Federal reserve banks from offering certain products or services directly to an individual, and for other purposes.