Bill > AB1977

This bill makes several changes to the laws governing notaries public in California, primarily focusing on the implementation and regulation of online notarizations. Key provisions include requiring notary public applicants to pass a written exam, establishing a $100 fee for manufacturers and vendors of notary seals, and clarifying requirements for online notarization platforms and depositories, such as annual renewal of registration and specific fees for initial applications ($5,000) and renewals ($1,000). The bill also mandates that online notarization platforms and depositories notify the Secretary of State electronically of certain events, like ceasing operations, and requires the Secretary of State to post information on its website about registered platforms. Additionally, it clarifies that a notary public cannot charge a fee for a terminated online notarization session and updates the requirements for an electronic signature to match the notary's handwritten signature on their official oath. The bill also makes technical adjustments to the definition of an "electronic journal" and the requirements for its maintenance, as well as updating the grounds for disciplinary action against notaries and the responsibilities of online notarization platforms regarding data security and notification of breaches.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB1977