Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act

# Summary of HR 3390: Bringing the Discount Window into the 21st Century Act **What the Bill Does:** This bill directs the Federal Reserve to examine and modernize its "discount window" — a lending program that provides emergency loans to banks to help them manage cash flow and stay stable during financial challenges. The Fed would be required to review whether the system's technology, operating hours, and coordination with other lending sources are adequate for today's financial environment. If problems are found, the Fed must create a plan to fix them, set timelines for improvements, and report annually to Congress on progress. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects the Federal Reserve System and the banks that use its lending programs. It also represents an exercise of Congressional oversight, as lawmakers would receive regular updates on the discount window's modernization efforts. **Current Status:** HR 3390 has passed the House of Representatives.

It now moves to the Senate for consideration. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) and addresses a financial infrastructure issue that most Americans don't interact with directly, but that underpins the stability of the broader banking system.