I have read a lot of mixed reviews about the training fees that we are contractually supposed to pay back if we leave the firm. Looking for experiences and clarification.

I am just coming out of the Development Stage as a Planning TFA at Merrill. However, I've been here for a while, as I had to get my 7 and 66. Basically I hate this job, and I have zero interest in continuing to work in this environment. But I'm also getting married soon and relocating about 85 miles away. Originally, I was going to commute, but it's just not worth it. I'm interviewing for an Assistant Bank Manager position, but I don't want to accept it if it means I'll owe Merrill 15k. Are they actually going to ask that I repay the costs? Who is deemed a "competitor" for them? Will they equate small bank products to those offered by ML? Really regretting the decision to work here, but I don't want to make it worse for myself financially. I'm basically an indeventures servant. I'm not really leaving the industry, but I'm switching roles and relocating. Thoughts?