1. DOB Revises Guidance on Branch and Main Office Notices and
Applications
The Massachusetts Division of Banks has issued revised guidance
on the procedures for a bank to establish, relocate or close a
branch office or to redesignate a main office. The Division's
revised Regulatory Bulletin 2.3-104, released on November 15, also
includes a new section on establishing, closing or relocating a
branch outside of Massachusetts. According to the new guidance, a
bank must file an application with the Division to establish, close
or relocate a branch located outside of Massachusetts following the
same procedures required for an application for a branch located
inside Massachusetts. Such applications may be made using the
Uniform Bank Interstate Application available on the Division's
website. According to the guidance, the Division also will accept
an application that is submitted electronically through any program
offered by a federal banking agency. The notice
