House Bill 274

Chair's Name: Wendell Willard

Committee: Judiciary

House Sponsor: Ed Lindsey

HB 274 changes provisions relating to the qualifications of notaries public, as well as, adding additional requirements to be met in order to remain a notary public. These requirements include providing an operating telephone number, proof or residence in the county of application, and endorsements from individuals who have known the applicant for at least one month. This bill also revises the notary application form to reflect these changes. Currently, penalties for violating notary requirements are recommended by the each superior court clerk. HB 274 institutes a uniform criminal penalty, making violations a misdemeanor for first or second convictions and a felony on the third or subsequent conviction.

This committee substitute received a Do Pass recommendation from the Judiciary Committee and comes to the House Floor under the Modified Open Rule. 

Chairman Willard�s opinion of this legislation:

WHAT PROBLEM/OPPORTUNITY DOES THIS LEGISLATION ADDRESS?

HB274 provides for additional qualifications of notaries public and adds accountability to notaries.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THIS LEGISLATION?

The need for more accountability for notaries public.

THIS LEGISLATION:

• Reduces the Tax Burden on our Citizens:

Will assist in the fight against mortgage fraud and reduce taxpayer expenses of mortgage fraud