HF1609 Summary

• Enacts the Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (sections 358.51-358.76), replacing previous notary public statutes and establishing comprehensive standards for notarial acts effective January 1, 2019.

• Authorizes remote online notarization through communication technology with identity verification requirements including knowledge-based authentication (minimum 80% correct answers on five questions), credential analysis, and identity proofing.

• Establishes remote online notary public registration requirements, electronic journal maintenance (10-year retention), audio-video recording of notarizations, and fees capped at $25 per act prior to January 1, 2023.

• Requires notaries to obtain personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence of identity (government-issued ID, credible witness verification, or personal knowledge) before performing acknowledgments, verifications, or signature attestations.

• Clarifies prohibited acts including practicing law, immigration consultation, false advertising, and use of terms "notario" or "notario publico"; establishes grounds for commission denial, suspension, or revocation by the commissioner of commerce.