ADVOCACY

GENERAL ASSEMBLY UPDATE

Legislature Set to Adjourn Sine Die Later Today

The Georgia General Assembly will adjourn for the year later today, and your GBA Advocacy team will remain at the Capitol until midnight or later working to advance one remaining industry priority and defeat any last-minute attempts to pass other bills that would harm our members and the banking industry. We’ll publish a full Legislative Update Friday, but here is some early analysis from the conclusion of the 2026 session.

We are very pleased with the final passage of the Banking Department’s housekeeping bill, HB 945, which now awaits the Governor’s signature. The bill includes important provisions to protect vulnerable bank customers from fraud by allowing financial institutions the option to place temporary holds on transactions suspected of being fraudulent. It also establishes stronger guardrails on crypto ATMs, which have increasingly been used to facilitate fraud.

We extend our thanks to the bill’s sponsors, Rep. Bruce Williamson (R-Monroe) and Sen. Mike Hodges (R-Brunswick), for their leadership on this important legislation.

The Banking Department is working now to develop rules and training requirements for institutions that choose to implement transaction holds. GBA will work closely with the Department to educate bankers on the new law and provide access to training and resources needed to participate effectively.

Efforts to protect the industry from harmful legislation have so far been successful, particularly those related to the collection of interchange and “debanking.” SB 512, sponsored by Sen. Drew Echols (R-Gainesville), would have prohibited interchange on the sales tax portion of transactions; however, the bill did not advance out of the Senate Finance Committee. Similarly, attempts to attach “debanking” provisions from SB 341, sponsored by Sen. Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia), to HB 945 on the Senate floor were successfully defeated.

GBA’s advocacy team has worked diligently to oppose these measures and prevent their passage, and we will continue to do so until the General Assembly adjourns sine die later this evening or early tomorrow morning. We appreciate the banks and legislators who have supported our advocacy efforts and helped ensure these proposals did not advance.

Treasury Proposal Outlines Path for State-Regulated Stablecoins

The U.S. Treasury Department has proposed a new rule outlining how it will determine whether state regulatory frameworks for stablecoin issuers meet the “substantially similar” standard required under the Genius Act. The proposal would give states broad flexibility in shaping their regimes — including capital standards — while maintaining consistent requirements across state and federal levels for reserves, anti-money laundering and sanctions compliance. This is particularly relevant in Georgia as a state bill, HB 1272 by Rep. Todd Jones (R-South Forsyth), received final passage today and now goes to the Governor for his consideration. The bill would authorize the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance to license and regulate stablecoin issuers under a framework similar to the Genius Act. Public comments are due 60 days after publication, offering an opportunity for banks and industry stakeholders to weigh in on the evolving regulatory landscape. Read the proposed rule here.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fraud Watch: FinCEN Flags Healthcare Fraud Risks

FinCEN this week issued a financial institutions advisory to be on the lookout for signs of fraud tied to Medicare, Medicaid and other healthcare programs, sharing key red flags for industry awareness. Banks are encouraged to take a close look at customer payments coming from government healthcare sources and make sure the activity lines up with what's expected for that customer. The agency also encourages banks to reach out to law enforcement when something seems off and to look at the full picture — not just one transaction — when assessing potential fraud. Read the alert here.

Join the #BreakingBankingMyths Campaign to Inspire the Next Generation of Bankers

Attracting and retaining talent remains a top challenge we consistently hear from GBA member banks. A new industrywide campaign offers a simple, impactful way to help address that challenge while showcasing the variety of skill sets and expertise needed for a career in the industry.

Launched by the ABA’s Community Bankers Council Reimagining Banking Careers Working Group, the #BreakingBankingMyths campaign aims to inspire the next generation by highlighting the dynamic, rewarding and people-focused nature of today’s banking industry. GBA members Greg Eiford, Colony Bank; Neil Stevens, Oconee State Bank; and Eli Tinsley, Planters First Bank; serve on the Community Bankers Council.

The initiative encourages banks to challenge outdated perceptions and share authentic stories that reflect the wide range of career opportunities in banking. Participation is simple: record a short video using a smartphone and post it on social media using the hashtag #BreakingBankingMyths. Content can spotlight team members, workplace culture or common misconceptions, helping to present a more accurate and engaging picture of modern banking.

From dispelling the idea that banking is “just a teller job” to highlighting innovation, leadership opportunities and flexible career paths, each post contributes to a broader, industrywide message. The ABA will amplify submissions, extending the reach and impact of participating banks.

By joining this campaign, you can help elevate the industry’s story and connect with the next generation of banking professionals. Learn more here.

ATTENTION ATTORNEYS!

Status of Important Cases for April 2026

The latest ABA Newsbytes Banking Docket is now available. Read about the status of important cases here. Each article contains a “Read more” link with access to additional details on the issues, case summaries and links to related documents.

Recent Market Volatility in Retirement Plans

Retirement plan participants may have noticed the recent decline and volatility in the stock market over the past several weeks, so we wanted to share some commentary from American Trust Company, which serves as investment manager and discretionary trustee, for GBA Retirement Services member plans.

Market swings like the ones we’ve seen in recent weeks can feel unsettling but they’re also a normal part of investing. It helps to remember that short-term ups and downs don’t usually determine long-term results, especially as it relates to 401(k) plan and retirement savings. What matters most is staying invested and sticking to a strategy that’s built around your goals. A well-diversified portfolio, such as the UnifiedPlan, combined with regular contributions and periodic rebalancing, is designed to handle these kinds of market environments. In other words, success in retirement investing is driven more by consistency and time than by reacting to weekly and monthly market moves.

So, what’s behind the recent volatility? A few big forces are at play. Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence are beginning to reshape industries, creating both excitement and uncertainty about which companies will benefit most. At the same time, rising oil prices—driven by supply disruptions tied to ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East—are adding pressure to inflation, affecting economic growth and contributing to increased market volatility. Markets don’t just react to what’s happening today, they’re constantly adjusting to what investors think might happen next, which can lead to sharp, short-term movements.

The key takeaway? While today’s headlines may feel unique, markets have worked through similar challenges before. That’s why it’s important to focus on what you can control. Continue contributing to your plan, maintain a diversified mix of investments and avoid making sudden emotionally driven changes based on the news cycle. If you’re closer to retirement, this can be a good time to make sure your portfolio is gradually becoming more balanced and income-focused. Keep in mind that if you’re invested in the UnifiedPlan (our Managed Account option), prudent and timely portfolio adjustments are made automatically on your behalf to keep your strategy aligned with your investment timeline and goals. Volatility can be uncomfortable, but it also creates opportunities, and a disciplined, long-term approach remains your strongest advantage.

If you have any questions, please contact Mandy Richards at 404.420.2025 for more information.

GBA NEWS

Last Call to Volunteer with GBA in 2026-2027 Program Year

More than 300 members serve on one of GBA's 24 committees or boards and shape industry policy priorities, educational programs and other resources provided by GBA. If you or a banker you know would be a good fit to carry on that tradition, now’s the time for committee volunteer nominations.

• Why volunteer? Gain valuable experience, network with peers and give back to the community. Volunteer opportunities offer much more than they ask.
• When? We're seeking volunteers for the 2026-27 program year starting in July.
• What Are My Options? Explore opportunities here.
• How to Volunteer/Nominate Someone: Complete and submit the volunteer/nomination form online here or download a PDF version.
• Deadline: Volunteer by Friday, April 3.

Contact David Oliver with questions or to request a connection with a current committee/board member. Here's what two committee members had to say about their experience:

Jake Cleghorn

Chief Lending Officer, SVP

Altamaha Bank & Trust, Vidalia

"My journey with the GBA Agriculture Committee started with being invited to attend the annual conference. I quickly knew that the resources provided through the conference and peer connections were invaluable. The planning sessions and group emails have provided direct information to a statewide perspective on issues that our bank deals with on a daily basis. It is good to know we are all going through similar things, good and bad, and having resources and expertise to call on through the connections made with the committee will continue to be my immediate go to."

Sara Dunn
SVP, Deposit Operations
Classic City Bank, Athens

"It is a privilege to serve on the GBA Operations and Technology Committee, where members contribute experience and knowledge of operational processes and technology strategy. Through active collaboration the committee supports initiatives that enhance efficiency, strengthen controls and align technology capabilities with organizational goals. It is a tremendously rewarding experience of collaboration, insight and industry networking."

HR Professionals Institute Focuses on Leadership, Culture and Workplace Impact

A big crowd of HR leaders from banks across Georgia convened in Savannah March 25–27 for GBA’s HR Professionals Institute, exploring strategies to strengthen workplace culture, navigate change and support evolving workforce needs. The conference was led by Jessie Ledford, Rabun County Bank, who serves as GBA HR Committee chair. Special thanks also to committee Vice Chair Shea Zeigler, WB&T Bankshares, and the entire committee for planning the program.

Session highlights included:

GBA thanks its sponsors and exhibitors for their continued support, including Platinum Sponsor LemonadeLXP and Silver Sponsors First Stop Health and Troutman Pepper Locke, who contributed to a successful and engaging program.

Marketing Conference Delivers Insights on Strategy, Creativity and AI

Bank marketers from across the state gathered in Savannah March 25–27 for GBA’s Marketing Conference, sharing ideas and practical strategies to strengthen customer engagement and drive growth. The conference was led by Emily Doherty, Great Oaks Bank, who serves as GBA Marketing Committee chair. Thanks also to committee Vice Chair Beth James, Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co., and the entire committee for planning the program. In addition to the skill building sessions, the group was treated to a fun teambuilding activity to create custom trucker hats at the Mess Hall, sponsored by Emily and Beth’s banks.

Session highlights included:

We appreciated Cynthia Glover from the Kristopher James Company for sponsoring and exhibiting.

BSA Peer Group Focuses on Internal Fraud, Peer Insights

BSA/AML and OFAC professionals from across Georgia connected virtually April 1 for the latest GBA BSA Peer Group Meeting, an interactive session focused on strengthening compliance programs through shared insight and real-world experience.

Led by Kristen Stogniew of Saltmarsh, the discussion centered on internal fraud, with participants walking through recent case studies that highlighted emerging risks, detection challenges and practical response strategies. The peer-driven format allowed attendees to compare approaches and identify common themes, reinforcing the importance of strong internal controls and ongoing staff awareness.

The second half of the meeting shifted to an open forum, where participants raised timely questions and exchanged ideas on compliance concerns. The collaborative dialogue underscored the value of peer networks in navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

Save the Date: Registration will open soon for the next in-person session July 22 at Middle Georgia State University in Macon.

GBA Retirement Services Meeting Held Last Week

The GBA Retirement Services Board of Directors, chaired by Chuck Copeland, First National Bank of Griffin, held its quarterly meeting last week. The Board consists of nine bankers who oversee the employee retirement benefit program trusted by 40% of Georgia’s community banks. The Board meets regularly with the discretionary trustee, investment manager, and recordkeeper of the Trust, American Trust Retirement, to review plan administration and the investments we offer to ensure a top-notch, high quality, low cost 401(k) option for plans of all sizes.

We are happy to report that 69% of plan participants in the GBA Master Trust are on track to retire with at least 70% of their income. The industry average is approximately 30%. In addition, 83% of the 3,700 participants in the Trust are utilizing the UnifiedPlan Managed Account option in which American Trust builds their portfolio based on age, retirement readiness and other inputs such as risk tolerance and outside assets. There is no additional fee for the Managed Account option. With current assets now exceeding $350 million, being a part of the GBA Master Trust allows smaller plans, including plans of banks, associate members and bank clients, to gain buying power for an effective 401(k) solution for participants. If you would like more information or a proposal for 401(k) services, please contact Mandy Richards at 678.549.4167.

TRAINING & EVENTS

Early-bird Deadline Extended to April 3 for Bank Security Conference

There's still time to join bank security professionals from around the state at the Bank Security Conference April 13-15 at The Westin Jekyll Island. Designed specifically for Georgia bank security professionals, this premier in-person event will focus on strategic innovations in bank security, delivering timely education on today’s most pressing security challenges. Attendees can expect a comprehensive program covering robbery prevention, emerging technology trends, fraud mitigation strategies and ATM security, along with exclusive insights from industry experts. The conference also features a Bank Security Workshop, offering a deep dive into current physical security trends and hot topics, as well as valuable networking opportunities to connect with peers and share ideas. 

Exchange Ideas and Insights with Fellow Bank Internal Auditors

GBA’s next Internal Audit Peer Group Meeting is May 14 at the Methodist Home for Children & Youth in Macon. Designed exclusively for bank internal auditors, this in-person forum brings peers together to collaborate, share ideas and gain practical guidance on today’s most pressing audit issues. Experts from Elliott Davis will lead sessions about BSA model governance and validation practices, oversight of outsourced loan review providers, emerging credit trends and recent FDICIA changes. The program also includes a moderated roundtable discussion to encourage open dialogue and peer-driven insights you can apply immediately at your institution. Registration includes lunch. Secure your spot today and strengthen your audit program while expanding your professional network.

Paige Hembree

Cyber Threats Are Evolving — Is Your Bank’s ISO Ready?

The Information Security Officer 101 Seminar: The Evolving Role of this Critical Position is coming up on June 23 at Middle Georgia State University, Macon. This in-depth program explores the growing responsibilities of the Information Security Officer in today’s complex regulatory and cybersecurity environment. Led by Paige Hembree, the seminar will review the FFIEC mandate for the ISO role, best practices and evolving industry standards, and practical strategies for separating ISO and IT management responsibilities.

Registration Opening Soon!
Women in Banking Conference
Aug. 13-14, 2026
Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

Reminder: Registration Now Open!

Leadership Conference

July 13-15

The Omni Amelia Island, FL

More Events and Training Opportunities Coming up

• Georgia Banking School - April 26 - May 1, University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens

• GBA Compliance School - April 26 - May 1, University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, Athens

• Operations and Technology Peer Group - May 4, Methodist Home for Children & Youth, Macon

• Bank PR & Crisis Communications - May 7 & 14, Webinar Series

• Rural Development and Lending Conference - May 18-19, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, St. Simons

• 2026 Annual Meeting - June 7-9, The Cloister, Sea Island

• Understanding Bank Performance Webinar Series - July 9-31, Zoom

• Fraud Academy - Aug. 18-20, Hyatt Regency, Lexington, KY, or Virtual

ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING

IRA Basics, IRA Beneficiary Workshop, Accounting Tune Up and More 

Take a look at online training opportunities available to GBA members from OnCourse Learning and the American Bankers Association.

Upcoming hot topic webinars:

• Handling Cash – April 9

• IRA Basics: An Interactive Workshop – April 9

• CRE Lending Training Program – April 9

• BSA/AML and OFAC Compliance - 3 Part Series – April 13

• Using Principles of Critical Thinking – April 14

• IRA Beneficiary Workshop – April 14

• Bank Accounting Workshop: Interest Earning Assets - 2 Part Series – April 15

• New Community Bank Compliance Officer Workshop - 2 Part Series – April 16

• Alert! FinCEN Reduces BSA Beneficial Ownership Certification Burden! – April 17

• The Seamless Customer Experience: The Keys to Cross Selling Workshop - 2 Part Series – April 22

Self-paced courses, certificates and reference guides:

• Reference Guide to Regulatory Compliance

• Succession Planning for Banks

• Teller Basics: Upskill for a Digital World

• Bank Teller Certificate
• Residential Mortgage Lender Certificate

Facilitated courses starting soon:

• Bank Lines of Business – April 6 - May 1
• Managing Interest Rate Risk – April 6 - May 29
• Commercial Lending – April 13 - July 3
• Building Customer Relationships – April 27 - May 22
• Marketing Planning – April 27 - May 22

Strengthen Fraud Awareness With New Human Factors Training Suite

As fraud threats evolve, understanding the human element behind risk is critical. The ABA’s Human Factors in Fraud Prevention Suite helps GBA member banks strengthen awareness, decision-making and internal controls through a flexible, self-paced program. Available at a discounted rate to all GBA members, the training delivers practical insight to help banks build stronger fraud prevention programs in under two hours.

Learn more and access the suite here

PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

HR RESOURCES FOR BANKS

GBA’s 2026 Georgia Banking Compensation Survey is Open for Participation

Are you ready to take your HR strategy to the next level? The GBA’s 2026 Georgia Banking Compensation Survey is here to help you manage employee compensation programs effectively. The survey is open now for participation through May 22.

Why This Survey Matters:

• Comprehensive Insights: Get detailed data on base salaries, salary ranges, short-term and long-term incentives, total cash compensation and total compensation.
• HR Policies & Practices: Access in-depth information on salary increases, merit increases, structure adjustments, outsourcing, turnover and recruiting.
• Strategic Advantage: Use this valuable tool to stay competitive and make informed decisions about your wage and salary programs.

Key Dates to Remember:

• Survey Effective Date: April 1, 2026
• Submission Due Date: May 22, 2026
• Results Published: Week of Aug. 10, 2026

Exclusive Pricing:

• Participants: $650
• Non-Participants: $1,495

If your bank has not received a participation email, please contact Rhonda Snyder at rhonda.snyder@pearlmeyer.com, and she can send you the necessary info to participate.

Heightened geopolitical volatility and increasingly complex sanctions requirements are putting new pressure on financial institutions. Join GBA Strategic Partner Abrigo on April 6 at 2 p.m. for a timely webinar exploring why enterprise-grade screening has become essential to managing today’s sanctions risk environment.

This session will examine how legacy screening tools, often reliant on basic name matching, can create excessive false positives, operational inefficiencies and potential compliance gaps. Attendees will gain insight into how modern screening approaches leverage advanced matching techniques and secondary identifiers to improve accuracy, reduce noise and better align with regulatory expectations.

Designed for bankers and compliance professionals, the webinar will also highlight lessons from recent enforcement actions and provide practical guidance for evaluating whether your institution’s screening program is fit for today’s evolving risk landscape.

NEWSMAKERS

Blakely - First State Bank of Blakely

Our sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of bank president and CEO Billy Lanford, who passed away March 24. Read more.

Chatsworth - First National Community Bank

Sam Branch has been promoted to treasury management officer.

Covington - Affinity Bank

North Carolina-based Fidelity Bank announced a definitive agreement to acquire Affinity Bank for about $142.8 million in an all-cash deal. This acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.

Dublin - Bank of Dudley

Hunter Phillips has joined the bank team as a mortgage loan originator.

Dublin - SunMark Community Bank

The bank recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of its Dublin branch locations at 1409 Bellevue Avenue and 2142 US 441 South.

Elberton / Dublin - Pinnacle Bank / Morris Bank

Vallant Financial, Inc. has completed the merger between Vallant and Morris State Bancshares, Inc. Vallant was previously known as Pinnacle Financial Corporation and changed its name in anticipation of the merger. On the same date, Pinnacle Bank, subsidiary bank of Vallant, and Morris Bank, subsidiary bank of Morris, completed their merger and changed the legal name of the combined bank to Vallant Bank. Vallant Bank will continue to operate under the names Pinnacle Bank and Morris Bank in their respective markets until a systems conversion and full rebranding is completed later in the second quarter of 2026. Read more.

Tifton - South Georgia Banking Company

James Mock has been named market president for Turner and Worth counties.

Trenton - Citizens Bank & Trust

CBS Banc-Corp., the parent company of CB&S Bank, has completed its acquisition of TAG Bancshares, Inc., the parent company of Citizens Bank & Trust. The transaction became effective April 1. Full conversion and integration of Citizens Bank & Trust into CB&S Bank operations is expected to take place in the fall of 2026.

Valdosta - The Trust Bank

Our sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of the bank's Valdosta city president Louie Flythe, who passed away March 30. Read more.

Washington - F&M Bank

Jackson Carter has joined the bank team as treasury services manager.

Savannah - Coastal Area District Development Authority (CADDA)

GBA Associate Member CADDA was recently recognized for 50 years of service to communities in Georgia through SR 919 by Sen. Mike Hodges (R-Brunswick). Over its 50-year history, CADDA has funded more than 1,300 small business loans, helped drive over $526 million in community investment across Coastal Georgia and beyond, and supported the creation and retention of more than 9,300 jobs.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Bainbridge - First National Bank

The bank partnered with the Memories Car Club to visit residents at Bainbridge Health and Rehab and Memorial Manor for Easter.

Bainbridge - First Port City Bank

Bank employees spread Easter cheer to the residents of Memorial Hospital and Manor.

Dublin - Bank of Dudley

Bank team member Jason Dollar recently visited his son’s second-grade class at the Irish Gifted Academy to read Jasmine Launches a Startup as they begin their economics and business unit.

Read All About It: Send Us Your News

We want to share your news with your colleagues across the state. Please forward your announcements and photos to GBA's David Oliver and Katina Weiss.

Recruit, Retain and Develop the Best Bankers with GBA's Job Bank

GBA will post open positions, free of charge, for GBA members. See the open positions in Georgia here. We will also post professional summaries for bank-job seekers on our Bankers Available page. Contact Katina Weiss, 404.420.2021, with questions or needs.