Bill > A09232

This bill amends the state technology law to permit electronic notarization and witnessing of certain legal documents, expanding the ways in which signatures and records can be legally authenticated. The legislation allows notaries and other authorized officers to perform notarial acts electronically, even when signers are not physically present, by using electronic signatures and communication technologies. Key provisions include enabling witnesses to participate in document signing via real-time communication technology, allowing electronic verification of a signer's identity, and permitting the recording of the entire notarization interaction. The bill specifically addresses various types of documents, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, and provides guidelines for how electronic signatures and witnessing can be legally recognized. The bill also includes safeguards such as requiring witnesses to be able to identify signers, communicate in real-time, and record the interaction, and allows for electronic affidavits to document the witnessing process. Additionally, the legislation gives the secretary of state the authority to create rules and regulations for implementing electronic notarization, and ensures that existing valid documents remain unaffected by these new provisions. The act will take effect thirty days after becoming law, modernizing the state's approach to document authentication in the digital age.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9232