§5–1003.

    (a)    A banking institution or an out–of–state bank may establish a branch in this State by:

        (1)    Subject to subsection (b) of this section, opening a de novo branch;

        (2)    Purchasing an existing branch from a bank or an insured depository institution; or

        (3)    Converting former headquarters or retaining former branches following:

            (i)    The purchase of all or substantially all of the assets of a bank or an insured depository institution; or

            (ii)    A merger or a consolidation with a bank or an insured depository institution.

    (b)    An out–of–state bank may establish a de novo branch in this State under subsection (a)(1) of this section only if the home state of the out–of–state bank allows a banking institution to open a de novo branch in its state.

    (c)    A banking institution or an out–of–state bank may not establish or maintain a branch in this State on the premises or property of an affiliate if the affiliate engages in commercial activities.