Maintain a CRA public file, open for public inspection, that contains a map of their lending areas, their recent CRA evaluations, public comments on their CRA performance, and information on branch locations and services available, branch openings and closings, and lending activity. Post a CRA notice in each branch office that informs the public about CRA and encourages public participation in the bank application process. Assess each institution's community lending performance, assign a rating, and publish an evaluation report. Take that assessment into account when deciding whether or not to approve an institution's application for a new branch, a merger or acquisition, or new insurance. For the Community CRA gives community groups and individuals the opportunity to influence a bank's CRA rating and to intervene in the decision-making process when an application is filed.
Community groups can offer their own assessment of an institution's community lending performance.
Often, by filing a CRA protest or challenge, a group gains the leverage it needs to force a bank to address local banking needs. Flexible credit standards for evaluating the creditworthiness of low and moderate income people. Affirmative marketing of bank services to low income and minority areas. Special housing, small business and community development loan programs. Issues for Advocates Last year, Congress enacted major legislation revamping the structure of the financial services industry in this country.