Banking & Finance Government Affairs
Strategic government relations for financial services in Texas
JD Key Consulting is a government affairs firm in Texas with a strong focus on financial services policy. Known for expertise in navigating the regulatory landscape affecting banks, credit unions, lenders, and fintech companies, we help clients build productive relationships with state regulators and advocate effectively at the Legislature.
Texas's financial services sector operates under overlapping state and federal regulatory frameworks. The Texas Department of Banking, Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner, and Texas Department of Insurance each have distinct jurisdictions, and many institutions also work with federal regulators. Effective government affairs requires understanding how these agencies interact and where state-level advocacy can make a difference.
The Texas Legislature regularly considers bills affecting lending practices, consumer protection, licensing requirements, and emerging financial technologies. We track these developments in real-time and help clients engage strategically—whether supporting beneficial legislation, opposing harmful measures, or seeking technical amendments to improve workability.
Beyond legislation, we assist with regulatory matters including licensing applications, rule comments, and informal agency engagement. Building constructive relationships with regulators often prevents problems before they develop and positions clients favorably when issues do arise.
Key Capabilities
Legislative Advocacy
Monitoring and engaging on bills affecting banking, lending, and financial technology at the Texas Legislature.
Regulatory Navigation
Building relationships with DOB, OCCC, TDI, and other agencies that oversee financial services in Texas.
Industry Coalition Building
Coordinating with trade associations and industry partners for unified advocacy on shared priorities.
Fintech Engagement
Helping emerging financial technology companies navigate licensing, regulation, and legislative developments.
Who We Help
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas Department of Banking?
The Texas Department of Banking is the state agency that charters, regulates, and supervises state-chartered banks, foreign bank branches, trust companies, and certain other financial institutions in Texas. It conducts examinations, enforces state banking laws, and handles licensing applications. For institutions needing state-level regulatory engagement, JD Key Consulting helps build relationships with Department leadership and monitors policy developments.
What is the OCCC in Texas?
The Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (OCCC) is the Texas state agency that regulates consumer lending, including motor vehicle sales finance, retail installment sales, pawn shops, payday and title loans, and other consumer credit products. The OCCC licenses lenders, conducts examinations, and enforces the Texas Finance Code. JD Key Consulting represents lenders before the OCCC and tracks legislative developments affecting consumer credit.
What fintech regulations exist in Texas?
Texas regulates fintech companies through existing licensing frameworks at the OCCC (for lending), Department of Banking (for money transmission), and TDI (for insurance-related products). The Legislature has considered specific fintech bills on earned wage access, BNPL (buy now, pay later), and cryptocurrency. Texas has no comprehensive fintech sandbox, though some licensing accommodations exist. JD Key Consulting helps fintech companies understand which licenses apply and engage with regulators.
What is earned wage access regulation in Texas?
Earned wage access (EWA) allows employees to access wages before payday. Texas has debated whether EWA products constitute loans subject to OCCC regulation. The 89th Legislature considered bills to clarify the regulatory treatment of EWA providers. Currently, product structure determines regulatory requirements—some EWA models require lending licenses while others may not. JD Key Consulting tracks this evolving area and helps EWA providers engage with policymakers.
How does federal banking regulation interact with Texas state regulation?
National banks are primarily regulated by the OCC (Office of the Comptroller of the Currency), while state-chartered banks answer to both the Texas Department of Banking and federal regulators (FDIC or Federal Reserve). Consumer protection laws like the CFPB's rules apply broadly. State legislatures can add consumer protections but cannot override federal preemption for national banks. JD Key Consulting helps clients understand where state advocacy can be effective.
Related Legislation
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Schedule a confidential conversation with James Dickey.
Call 512.543.4971