Bill > HB4654

This bill creates a new criminal offense related to the misuse of notary seals by making it illegal to knowingly affix a notary seal or a counterfeit seal (defined as an unauthorized mark that is substantially identical to a genuine notary seal, including digital or photographic copies) to a document that is presumed to be fraudulent, and then attempting to file or record that document with various court clerks or municipal clerks. A "counterfeit seal" specifically means a seal that the secretary of state did not provide or authorize for use by the individual. The offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, which typically carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail and/or a fine. The bill also includes a provision that allows prosecution under this new law as well as any other applicable laws simultaneously. The new law will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving government offices and legal professionals time to prepare for the new criminal statute.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4654