Bill > SB1028

This bill updates Oklahoma's notary public regulations by introducing several key changes. It mandates that all new and renewing notary public applicants undergo a national criminal history record check conducted electronically by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), which will collect fingerprints and charge a fee up to $50. The bill increases various fees associated with notary commissions: new commission applications now cost $50 (up from $25), renewals cost $45 (up from $20), and same-day filing services cost $50 (up from $25). Additionally, the notary bond requirement has been significantly raised from $1,000 to $10,000, and the filing fee for the bond has increased from $10 to $25. The bill also clarifies that individuals with felony convictions are permanently barred from obtaining or renewing a notary commission. These changes aim to enhance the professionalism and accountability of notaries public in Oklahoma by implementing more rigorous background checks and increasing financial safeguards. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving state agencies and potential notaries time to prepare for the new requirements.