The first half of 2026 has been one of the most active public policy periods for the payments industry in recent memory. From legislative debates surrounding the CLARITY Act and stablecoin regulation to evolving guidance on earned wage access (EWA), open banking, and artificial intelligence, the regulatory landscape has shifted rapidly. Throughout it all, the Innovative Payments Association (IPA) has been actively engaged—advocating for the industry, working with policymakers and regulators, and ensuring the payments community's voice is heard.

The IPA's 2026 Mid-Year Report highlights the association's accomplishments through the first six months of the year, including key advocacy efforts, regulatory engagement, thought leadership, educational programming, and industry events. The report also looks ahead to the remainder of 2026, including the IPA Compliance Boot Camp on September 10, where payments professionals will gather to explore the latest developments in compliance, regulation, and industry best practices.

As policymakers continue to address emerging technologies, consumer protection, financial inclusion, and innovation, the IPA remains committed to equipping members with the advocacy, intelligence, education, and compliance resources they need to navigate an increasingly complex payments landscape.

Download the 2026 IPA Mid-Year Report to learn more about the IPA's work on behalf of the payments industry and what's ahead for the remainder of the year.

The Innovative Payments Association (IPA) is voicing its strong support for the Earned Wage Access Consumer Protection Act (H.R. 9330), legislation currently under consideration by the House Financial Services Committee. The bill is designed to provide greater regulatory clarity for earned wage access (EWA) services while ensuring consumers continue to have access to innovative financial tools that help them better manage their finances.

Earned wage access allows employees to access wages they have already earned before their scheduled payday, helping workers address unexpected expenses and improve cash flow without relying on higher-cost credit products. The IPA has consistently advocated for policies that recognize EWA as a liquidity tool rather than a traditional credit product and has worked with lawmakers and regulators to develop a modern regulatory framework that reflects how these services operate.

In its statement, IPA President and CEO Brian Tate praised Representative Bryan Steil for his leadership on the issue and emphasized the importance of establishing clear federal standards that encourage innovation while maintaining strong consumer protections. The association believes thoughtful policymaking will help ensure EWA remains a safe, reliable financial resource for millions of working Americans as the payments ecosystem continues to evolve.

The IPA remains committed to working with Congress and industry stakeholders to advance policies that support financial inclusion, innovation, and responsible consumer protection across the payments industry.

At its second quarter Board meeting, the Innovative Payments Association (IPA) installed updated Board leadership and welcomed new representation, reflecting the continued engagement and evolution of its member community.
 
Dane James, who previously served as Chairman, has stepped down. The IPA thanks Dane for his leadership and meaningful contributions to the association and its members.
 
In his place, Joan Herman, Executive Vice President of Operations at Paysign, was elected Chair. The Board also named Eric Schurr, Chief Strategy Officer at Sunrise Banks, as Vice Chair; and Amy Lauck, Deputy General Counsel at Pathward, as Treasurer.
 
“IPA’s strength comes from the depth and diversity of its leadership,” said IPA President and CEO Brian Tate. “We are grateful for Dane’s service and pleased to welcome Joan and Eric into these roles. Their experience and perspective will help IPA effectively represent our members during a time of significant change across financial services.”
 
The Board also welcomed new participation, further strengthening its representation across banks, fintechs, networks, and technology providers.
 
Board of Directors

• The Bancorp Bank, N.A.: Brian Axell, Managing Director, Deputy General Counsel, Fintech Strategies
• Blackhawk Network: Stephanie O’Brien, Associate General Counsel
• Cardaq: Hugo Remi, Chief Executive Officer
• Chime: Nick Stowell, Head of Government Advocacy
• CPI Card Group: Peggy O’Leary, Prepaid Sales Director
• DailyPay: Claudia Flores, Vice President, Public Policy; Financial Services and Emerging Technologies
• Expanse Financial Technologies: Michael Gaspar, Chief Executive Officer
• Fidelity Information Services (FIS): Jakob Harrison, Vice President and General Manager, Filtered Spend and Prepaid Payment Solutions
• Fifth Third Bank: Keisha Agee, Client Success Leader at Newline
• Green Dot Corporation: Amy Pugh, General Counsel
• H&R Block: Kathleen Ryan, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel
• InComm: Ben Bryant, Associate General Counsel, Financial Services & Division Counsel, Marketing
• Instant: Heather Heebner, Senior Vice President, Regulatory and Treasury Compliance
• Onbe: Ed Woodson, Chief Legal Officer
• Paysafe: Chris Stromberg, Vice President & Head of U.S. Government Affairs
• Q2: Scott McCormack, Vice President, Relationships, Operations, Implementations
• Stream: Kevin Lefton, Head of Legal & Compliance, North America
• Stride Bank: Mark Sumby, Senior Vice President
• Visa: Saj Imam, Senior Director, U.S. Prepaid

 
IPA’s Board provides strategic guidance as the association advances its mission to support innovation, financial inclusion, and sound public policy across the payments ecosystem.
 
About the IPA
The Innovative Payments Association (IPA) is the leading voice of the electronic payments sector, including prepaid products, mobile wallets, and person-to-person (P2P) technology for consumers, businesses, and governments at all levels. The IPA encourages the efficient use of electronic payments, cultivates financial inclusion through educating and empowering consumers, and represents the industry before legislative and regulatory bodies. To learn more, visit ipa.org.