Bill > HF3560

This bill enacts the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act, which allows for the creation and use of electronic nontestamentary estate planning documents, meaning documents related to estate planning that are not wills. It defines key terms such as "electronic" (relating to digital or similar capabilities), "electronic presence" (being able to communicate by sight and sound with another person via electronic means as if physically present), "electronic record" (information stored or sent electronically), and "electronic signature" (an electronic symbol or process adopted with the intent to sign). The Act clarifies that these electronic documents and signatures are legally valid and enforceable, and do not negate the validity of existing paper documents or electronic documents valid under other laws. It also addresses requirements for notarization, acknowledgment, witnessing, and retention of electronic records, allowing for certified paper copies of electronic documents to be treated as originals. The core principle is that electronic estate planning documents should be facilitated and recognized, provided they are created and handled with appropriate security and attribution measures, and that no one is forced to use electronic means if they prefer not to.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3560/