Bill > HB0319

This bill modifies how county recorders handle electronic documents by establishing new procedures for "digital authentication," which is a method of verifying a person's identity and ensuring an electronic document hasn't been altered using tamper-evident technology. County recorders will now be required to comply with approval requirements before accepting these digitally authenticated records, which are defined as electronic documents that have been authenticated and meet specific standards. To accept these records, counties must submit a detailed proposal to the State Archives outlining their digital authentication system, security measures, verification procedures, and consultation with relevant stakeholders, and then obtain approval from the State Archivist. The State Archives, in turn, will establish technical standards and procedures for digital authentication systems, including security, preservation, and verification requirements, and will consult with the Division of Technology Services for technical expertise. This bill also clarifies the duties of the Division of Archives and Records Service and the Division of Technology Services in relation to digital authentication and sets an effective date of May 6, 2026.