Section 7-1-603. Extension of existing banking locations; automated teller machines, cash dispensing machines, point-of-sale terminals, and other extensions

   (a) An approved banking location may have an extension, which is not a branch or main office, at which banking activities may occur. The extensions described in this Code section do not require approval but may have certain restrictions or required notifications.

(b) The following are extensions:

   (1) "Automated teller machine" means electronic equipment which performs routine banking transactions including, but not limited to, the taking of deposits for the public at locations off premises of a bank's main or branch office under regulations prescribed by the commissioner.

   (2) "Cash dispensing machine" means for the purposes of this part and as used in paragraph (4) of subsection (b) of Code Section 7-1-241 an automated or electronic terminal which dispenses cash or scrip redeemable for goods and services or for cash, goods, and services. Such machines may provide account information but may not initiate intrabank transactions other than those necessary and incidental to the dispensing of cash.

   (3) "Point-of-sale terminal" means electronic equipment located in nonbank business outlets to record electronically with a bank transactions occurring as a result of the sale of goods or services.

For purposes of this Code section, the terms "automated teller machine," "point-of-sale terminal," and "cash dispensing machine" shall not include personal communication devices such as telephones, computer terminals, modems, and other similar devices which are not accessible to the general public but are intended for use by a single bank customer. It is not the intent of this Code section to limit the ability of banks or other entities to utilize personal communication devices. The department may by regulation further define "automated teller machine," "point-of-sale terminal," "cash dispensing machine," and "personal communication device" consistent with the objectives set forth in Code Section 7-1-3.

(c) The following are restrictions on location of an extension:

   (1) Any Georgia state bank or credit union may operate automated teller machines throughout the state. Any bank not otherwise doing a lawful banking business in this state may operate automated teller machines throughout this state, provided such automated teller machines are unstaffed and not combined with a staffed facility. These machines may be operated individually by any bank or jointly on a cost-sharing basis by two or more banks or other financial institutions;

   (2) Any bank may operate cash dispensing machines throughout the state. Access to and use of cash dispensing machines may be available to all banks in this state on an individual or a shared basis; and

   (3) A point-of-sale terminal may be located anywhere in the state.

(d) An extension not defined in subsection (b) is permitted, provided such extension is located within the boundary lines of a single contiguous area of property owned or leased by the bank and used as a banking location, or if it is within 200 yards of such a banking location. Banking services may be performed at the extension. Written notification to the department is required for such extension.

Code 1933, § 13-203.2, enacted by Ga. L. 1966, p. 590, § 2; Ga. L. 1973, p. 526, § 1; Ga. L. 1975, p. 475, § 1; Ga. L. 1995, p. 673, § 24; Ga. L. 1997, p. 485, § 21; Ga. L. 1999, p. 674, § 17; Ga. L. 2003, p. 843, § 7.