SB 247 - Notary Public Remote Notarization and Electronic Records

• Allows notaries public to certify tangible copies of electronic records as certified copies for property recording purposes.

• Establishes a process for remote notarization using communication technology, requiring notaries to verify identity through personal knowledge, credible witnesses, or identity proofing services.

• Requires notaries performing remote notarizations to maintain a journal documenting all notarial acts for 10 years and notify the Secretary of State of technologies used.

• Permits notarial acts performed outside the United States to have the same effect as acts performed by Alabama notaries, provided the records relate to U.S. matters or property.

• Makes intentional or fraudulent violations of remote notarization provisions a Class C misdemeanor and becomes effective July 1, 2022.