NR 2001-88
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
October 5, 2001
Contact:  Robert M. Garsson (202) 874-5770 


OCC Supports Efforts of National Banks to Aid in Recovery Efforts

WASHINGTON -- National banks that support recovery efforts in communities 
affected by the September 11 terrorist attacks will receive credit under 
the Community Reinvestment Act, the Office of the Comptroller of the 
Currency announced today.

"America's national banks have responded to these tragic events with a 
great sense of community and professionalism," said Comptroller of the
Currency John D. Hawke, Jr.   "I want them to know that the OCC will 
support their efforts to help the people in the New York and Washington areas."

The Community Reinvestment Act encourages banks to lend to their local 
communities, including low and moderate-income communities.  The OCC is 
directing its examiners to count loans that contribute to the recovery 
effort toward meeting a bank's CRA commitments.  A bank's CRA score is 
considered when it files applications for certain activities, such as mergers. 

The OCC will include loans, investments and other services banks provide 
to individuals in the affected areas.

# # #

The OCC charters, regulates and examines approximately 2,200 national banks 
and 52 federal branches of foreign banks in the U.S., accounting for more 
than 54 percent of the nation's banking assets. Its mission is to ensure a 
safe and sound and competitive national banking system that supports the 
citizens, communities and economy of the United States.