Section 7-1-79. Discretionary expedited approval process; considerations

   (a) The department may determine that formal approvals for certain transactions or activities to be conducted by its regulated entities are not necessary but may be replaced by a discretionary expedited approval process to begin with written notice to the department by the entity which describes the transaction or activity in a form and with a specificity acceptable to the department. For such instances, the department shall promulgate rules and regulations consistent with the authority provided to it in this chapter.

(b) In the exercise of the discretion permitted by this Code section, the commissioner shall consider:

   (1) Whether the transaction or activity poses unacceptable safety and soundness risks;

   (2) Whether the transaction or activity is warranted only for financially strong and well-managed institutions, as such institutions are further defined in department regulations;

   (3) Whether the transaction or activity is necessary to reduce the burden on financial institutions or other entities which the department regulates;

   (4) Whether the transaction or activity will assist regulated entities in remaining competitive and responsive to both economic and consumer demands; and

   (5) Whether the transaction or activity is consistent with the objectives of this Code section.

Code 1981, § 7-1-79, enacted by Ga. L. 1997, p. 485, § 9.