this is not abnormal at all, and it has nothing to do with "tough times"

fact is, banks/credit unions get charged by clearing houses (the fed) for processing.

why do you think if you write a check to a store and it bounces, they charge you an additional fee? its because they are passing the fee they pay to their bank down to you.

will your bank likely be willing to reverse the fee for you? yeah, probably. i would for a good account holder.

what's more, i'd bet my life that the disclosure your bank gave you (because they are required by law) when you opened your account clearly stated these fees to you.