Bill > S943

This bill aims to modernize notary services in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: - Defining terms related to remote notarization, such as "communication technology" and "identity proofing", and establishing standards for remote notarization using video conferencing and identity verification methods. - Allowing notaries public to perform notarial acts remotely for individuals who are not physically present, as long as certain requirements are met, such as identity verification and recording the audio-visual session. - Requiring remote notarizations for real estate closings to be conducted by an attorney notary public or a non-attorney notary under the supervision of an attorney. - Prohibiting notaries from using, selling, or transferring personal information obtained during remote notarizations, except as necessary to facilitate the notarial act or comply with the law. - Updating regulations around notary seals, journals, and fees, including allowing electronic notary seals and journals. - Empowering the Secretary of the Commonwealth to establish standards and rules for remote notarization and oversee notaries who perform remote notarizations. The bill aims to modernize and streamline notary services while maintaining safeguards, particularly for important real estate transactions.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S943