Regulators are going beyond CRA ratings when assessing M&A deals amidst outspoken criticism from community advocates. Last year, the OCC required Valley National Bancorp to strengthen its overall CRA plan before acquiring 1st United Bank amidst pressure from community groups. The groups charged that, even though Valley National had received a “satisfactory” CRA rating, its CRA record in its New York City market was weak. Many banks looking into M&A deals are now beefing up their CRA plans and making them the centerpiece of their efforts to assuage community groups and regulators. When it comes to revising CRA plans, “it’s about making responsible loans and a commitment to the credit needs of the community,” said John Taylor, president and CEO of National Community Reinvestment Coalition.