Section 7-1-99. Duties and responsibilities of department regarding interest and usury complaints; advisory opinions; effect

   (a) Except as provided in Chapter 3 of this title, as amended, and Chapter 22 of Title 33, as amended, the department is designated as the appropriate agency of this state to receive and investigate complaints or allegations regarding violations of the interest and usury laws of this state. In processing such matters, the department may refer complaints or allegations to other state or federal officials or agencies which have jurisdiction over the lender involved for investigation or other action.

(b) (1) The department, in consultation with the Department of Law, may render and publish advisory opinions for the assistance and guidance of financial institutions as defined in this chapter.

   (2) Reliance in good faith upon an opinion issued as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall constitute prima-facie evidence of good faith on the part of any person charged with any violation, resulting from the reliance, which subjects him to forfeiture or other sanctions imposed by the interest and usury laws. The provisions of this paragraph shall apply even if, following the reliance, the opinion is amended, rescinded, or determined by any judicial or other authority to be invalid.

Code 1933, § 41A-411, enacted by Ga. L. 1979, p. 951, § 1; Ga. L. 1989, p. 14, § 7.