House Passes Community Bank Bill Cosponsored by Rep. Loudermilk
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The U.S. House Tuesday passed the Main Street Capital Access Act, advancing legislation aimed at strengthening community banking through tailored regulation and encouraging the formation of new community banks. Georgia Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA 11) is a cosponsor of the bill.
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The Georgia delegation voted mostly along party lines, with the
exception being Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA 5) joining Republicans voting in favor of the legislation. We appreciate her staff for having a discussion last week with Elizabeth Chandler to learn more about the legislation.
The measure would establish a three-year phase-in period for de novo financial institutions to meet federal capital requirements, require federal banking agencies to act on bank merger and acquisition applications within 90 days, and direct regulators to consider an institution's risk profile and business model when issuing new regulations and supervisory decisions.
The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
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Highlights from Fraud Fighting Meeting with DBF, Members and other Trades
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GBA's Advocacy team met this week with the Georgia Department of Banking & Finance, member bankers, industry experts and other financial institution trade associations to discuss more ways to combat the growing threat of financial fraud affecting Georgia consumers and businesses. Building on the fraud provisions enacted through HB 945 during the 2026 legislative session, participants explored the potential for additional state-level initiatives, including expanding the state's new transaction hold law, further strengthening consumer protections for virtual currency kiosks and identifying other legislative and regulatory solutions. GBA members in attendance included 2026-2027 GBA Chairman Susan Moss and Martha Brown, Planters and Citizens Bank; Jay Torbert, Southeastern Bank; Judson Grantham, Synovus/Pinnacle Financial Partners; Sam Drennen, Peak Strategic Consulting; and Michael White, James Bates Brannan Groover, who all shared valuable frontline perspectives. GBA appreciates Commissioner Bo Fears and DBF for hosting the meeting and for their willingness to contribute time and expertise to continue working with stakeholders to advance meaningful fraud prevention efforts. With questions, contact Elizabeth Chandler, 404.372.7893 and Tripp Cofield, 617.909.9530.
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U.S. House Financial Services Committee Report Calls for Broad Strategy to Combat Fraud
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We are encouraged by a report this week from Republicans on the House Financial Services Committee recommending a broad, all-of-ecosystem approach to combating financial fraud and scams. It echoes the position we shared with our congressional delegation on GBA's D.C. visit this year and during other regular outreach. The report recognizes that most scams originate on social media, online platforms and telecommunications networks long before a payment reaches a financial institution, requiring stronger collaboration among government, technology companies, telecommunications providers, law enforcement and banks. We also welcome the report's recognition of the bipartisan SCAM Act as an important step toward reducing fraudulent online advertising and protecting consumers.
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Several Georgia Banks Recognized for Performance
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Congratulations to Perry Revell, CEO, Matt Rushton, president, and the entire team at Community Capital Bankshares (AB&T), Albany, for being recognized as No. 18 among the top-performing 20 public banks with under $2 billion of assets in 2025 by American Banker.
Four other publicly-traded Georgia bank companies were in the top 100:
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- No. 41: Southeastern Banking Corp. (Southeastern Bank), Darien, Jay Torbert, president &CEO
- No. 42: CBC Holding Co. (Community Banking Company), Fitzgerald, Corey Gibbs, president &CEO
- No. 74: Oconee Financial Corporation (Oconee State Bank), Watkinsville, Neil Stevens, president & CEO
- No. 91: Morris State Bancshares, Inc. (Morris Bank), Dublin, Spence Mullis, president & CEO. (Now Vallant Bank, Elberton)
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The banks were ranked by consulting firm Capital Performance Group based on their three-year average return on average equity, or ROAE.
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Community Bank Optimism Remains Strong, CSBS Survey Finds
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Community bankers remain optimistic about the economy and their local markets, according to the latest Community Bank Sentiment Index released by the Conference of State Bank Supervisors. While the overall index eased slightly from the previous quarter, it remained at a strong 129 — well above the neutral benchmark of 100. We appreciated Georgia Banking Commissioner Bo Fears giving attendees a “breaking news” summary of the survey results, which were released the same day of his session at last week's GBA Leadership Conference.
Among the report's highlights:
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- Profitability sentiment rebounded to its highest level since early 2025.
- Franchise value sentiment remained near a record high, reflecting confidence in long-term growth.
- Overall uncertainty declined from the previous quarter.
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Bankers continued to express confidence in their local markets, despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges.
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BSA Professionals Gather in Macon for Peer Group Meeting
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BSA professionals from across Georgia gathered this week for their in-person peer group meeting, led by Kristen Stogniew and Jason Keith of Saltmarsh. The day included discussions on exam trends, regulatory and legislative updates, emerging fraud issues and a hands-on SAR workshop designed to strengthen Suspicious Activity Report writing skills through practical examples and an interactive case study.
Save the dates for these related programs:
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- Virtual BSA Peer Group Meeting: Wednesday, November 4, 10 a.m. – Noon
- 2027 BSA Summit: January 11–14, Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort, Stone Mountain
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Update on Georgia BankPAC Campaign
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The 2026 BankPAC campaign is in full swing. Contribution forms along with all BankPAC information may be accessed on the advocacy page of our website with easy-to-follow options for making these contributions.
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As a reminder, state-chartered banks or national bank holding companies may contribute to the StatePAC, while eligible individuals may do so to the FedPAC. If you have questions, contact Elizabeth Chandler at 404.372.7893 or Bo Brannen at 404.731.9886.
Contributing to the GBA StatePAC recently are the following banks:
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- The Geo. D. Warthen Bank, Sandersville, Ken Bibb, CEO
- First State Bank, Wrens, David Jopling, president & CEO
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Contributions to the GBA FedPAC have come from eligible employees, officers and directors of:
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- F&M Bank, Washington, Ed Pope, president & CEO
- First Bank of Pike, Zebulon, John Barker, president & CEO
- First National Bank of Griffin, Chuck Copeland, president & CEO
- First National Community Bank, Chatsworth, Ryan Earnest, president & CEO
- The Citizens Bank of Americus, Rick Whaley, president & CEO
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CONFERENCE & EVENT SPOTLIGHTS
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Don't miss this year's Women in Banking Conference, where you'll find a dynamic mix of educational sessions that deepen professional knowledge and encourage personal growth. It’s this unique blend of learning and connection that creates the high-energy, collaborative atmosphere our attendees value year after year. Here's a rundown on the sessions:
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Economic Update with Paula Tkac, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
- Mastering Efficiency with Sarah McKinney, Athens Area Community Foundation
- Attendee-favorite Roundtable Discussions
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A Fireside Chat with Mary Usategui, CEO and founder of BankMiami, and Jessi Englert, First American Bank & Trust Company
- Conversations That Matter panel discussion
- Seeing Differences Differently with Dr. Karah Sprouse, co-founder of ReGenerate
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GBA Fall Advocacy Play Day – Oct. 14!
Two Great Events. One Important Cause.
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BankPAC Golf and Inaugural Mahjong Mingle
River Forest Golf Club, Forsyth
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Whether you prefer the fairway or the Mahjong table, Oct. 14 offers two great ways to support GBA advocacy while spending the day with colleagues and customers.
Registration is now open for the annual BankPAC Golf Classic at River Forest Club in Forsyth and the inaugural Mahjong Mingle, held concurrently at the same location. Golfers of all skill levels — including legislators, directors and guests — are invited to hit the links, while Mahjong players, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts, can enjoy an afternoon of play with instruction available for newcomers. Both events benefit the GBA StatePAC and conclude with a joint reception celebrating the day's winners and participants.
Choose your game and register today. Contact GBA's Mary Frances Miller with questions.
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Credit Conference Registration Now Open - Dec. 3-4 in Savanah
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This event, planned by the GBA Credit Committee, covers the full spectrum of market intelligence, credit trends, underwriting, risk management and business development topics essential for growing, thriving banks. The event provides participants the opportunity to network, share best practices and learn from nationally known experts in an away-from-the-bank environment to foster creativity and connections.
We'll have a finalized agenda soon, but here’s a topical glimpse:
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- Ag Update
- AI
- Legal Update
- Roundtable Discussions
- Regulatory Update
- CRE in Georgia
- Economic Update
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BankPAC Pickleball Paddle Battle
Aug. 27, Macon
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Hit the Courts at this Fun Indoor Event
Join us at the world's largest indoor pickleball facility for a fun afternoon of social, friendly competition, lunch and giveaways. Prizes will be awarded to top winners! All proceeds go to the GBA StatePAC.
Get involved beyond the court!
Sponsorship Opportunities are available, with prices ranging from $250 - $650. Click here for details or contact GBA’s Kathy Friestad with questions.
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PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
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GBA STRATEGIC PARTNER BANC CARD OF AMERICA
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Get the Best Local Support for Any Type of Merchant
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GBA-endorsed Banc Card of America offers valuable services to retailers, restaurants, hotels, B2B and online merchants, allowing them to accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and Diners Club), and online and offline debit cards. Best of all, one of their seven in-state, local representatives is never more than a short drive away from your bank or your merchant customers. Contact Jim Staples with Banc Card to find out how they can help: 770.314.3505, jstaples@banccard.com.
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GBA STRATEGIC PARTNER S&P GLOBAL
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Members Eligible for Discounts on Dynamic Commercial Loan Prospecting
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You can’t seize the right opportunities without the right information, and maximum pipeline growth potential requires deep insight into your markets. The Commercial Prospecting solution from GBA Partner S&P Global helps you efficiently identify lending opportunities with extensive intelligence on commercial real estate (CRE) and commercial and industrial (C&I) loans. With detailed insight into the number and size of opportunities available, you’ll be better equipped to determine resource needs, set sales targets, and manage accountability. Analyze your commercial lending market share against your peers to see how you stack up. To learn more, contact S&P’s Maureen McKenna at maureen.mckenna@spglobal.com.
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HR Professionals Peer Group Meeting
Sept. 3 in Macon
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Join fellow bank HR professionals from across Georgia for an interactive roundtable discussion focused on today's most pressing HR topics. Share ideas, discuss challenges, exchange solutions, and gain valuable insights from peers who understand the unique needs of the banking industry. Discussion topics will be driven by participant input, ensuring relevant and meaningful conversations for attendees.
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South Georgia Community Bank Symposium Sept. 17, Valdosta
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Ops/Tech Peer Group Meeting Sept. 22, Athens
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Jim Stewart of Vallant Bank and GBA Operations & Technology Committee member will facilitate the meeting covering industry hot topics. Participants can help shape the discussion by submitting topics during the registration process. Sponsorships are available. Click here for sponsorship information.
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Compliance Conference – Oct. 21 – 23,
Sea Palms Resort, St. Simons Island
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Join Georgia's premier conference for bank compliance professionals. Get practical insights on today's top compliance issues, exchange ideas with peers from across the state and return with solutions you can put to work right away — all while enjoying outstanding networking in a relaxed coastal setting.
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Come to Georgia's premier multi-day conference for bank CFOs and finance teams — the Financial Risk Management Conference, set for Nov. 5-6 at the Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Decatur Downtown/Emory.
Topics
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AI Session
- FHLBank Pledging Class
- ALM Panel
- Analysis of the 2026 Election, John Ashford, The Hawthorn Group
- More!
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ONLINE LEARNING – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING
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Stablecoin, ChatGPT for Accountants, IRA, Teller Series and More
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Take a look at online training opportunities available to GBA members from OnCourse Learning and the American Bankers Association.
Upcoming hot topic webinars:
Self-paced courses, certificates and reference guides:
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The Georgia Bankers Association extends its condolences to the family and friends of George Atkins, former president of the GBA Trust Division, who died July 18. Atkins began his 33-year banking career with Citizens and Southern National Bank and retired as executive vice president of Wachovia Bank, N.A. Read more.
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Camilla – Planters and Citizens Bank
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Hallie Holton has been promoted to loan operations officer.
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Cleveland – Apex Banking Company of Georgia
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The bank’s new building at 35 Jessie Mae Thurmond Connector in Cleveland is now open. A ribbon cutting was held July 16.
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| Milledgeville – Exchange Bank
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Annie Folendore has been promoted to assistant vice president of loan operations.
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Stuart, FL – Seacoast Bank
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The bank is celebrating its 100th anniversary, marking a century of serving individuals, families and businesses across Florida and Georgia. Founded in 1926, the bank has grown to more than 100 branches across the two states. Read more here. Play video here.
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Watkinsville – Oconee State Bank
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Kevin Franks has joined the bank as senior vice president and treasurer.
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| Braselton – Exchange Bank
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The bank recently made a generous donation to Ministry Village in Braselton. Founded in 2012 with the mission of being a refuge for those in need, Ministry Village has grown from a small outreach serving families into a trusted hub for hope, healing, counseling and long-term care.
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| Cairo – First National Bank
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First National Bank Cairo team members spent time this week with students in the GROW program, sponsored by Georgia CTI, sharing budgeting tips and financial literacy skills.
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Through the 2026 Georgia HEART Hospital Program, United Bank recently presented a $100,000 donation to Wellstar Sylvan Grove Medical Center to help expand access to quality healthcare for residents across Butts County and the surrounding area.
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Read All About It: Send Us Your News
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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.
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Recruit, Retain and Develop the Best Bankers with GBA's Job Bank
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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.
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