As used in this chapter, "de novo branch" means a branch of a bank located in a host state that:

1. (1) is originally established by the bank as a branch; and

2. (2) does not become a branch of the bank as a result of:

   1. (A) the acquisition of another bank or a branch of another bank; or
   2. (B) the merger, consolidation, or conversion involving any such bank or branch.

As added by P.L.171-1996, SEC.37.