Bill > HB2008

This bill modernizes and updates Arizona's notary public regulations, introducing several key changes. It requires individuals recording certain real property documents to provide valid government-issued identification, with specific exceptions for professionals like escrow officers, title insurance agents, financial institutions, and governmental entities. The bill mandates that notaries keep detailed journals of their notarial acts, including new requirements like recording thumbprints for certain document types, and expands provisions for remote online notarization. Notary applicants must now obtain a valid fingerprint clearance card and provide comprehensive background information, including potential criminal records or past professional disciplinary actions. The secretary of state gains enhanced authority to investigate and take action against individuals improperly acting as notaries, including issuing cease and desist orders. The bill also allows for electronic filing of documents and clarifies the rules around notarial acts performed in different jurisdictions, including other states, tribal lands, and under federal authority. Additionally, the legislation updates various technical details about notary commissions, such as identification requirements, journal-keeping protocols, and the process for maintaining and renewing notary credentials.

Government Affairs

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81642