SB961 Summary

• County clerk must notify previous deed holders when a new deed is filed, using the most effective method available including third-party vendors, and may charge a one-dollar notification fee per deed filing.

• Deed holders may place a trigger in their deed requiring the county clerk to contact and verify them before any subsequent filings are processed, with a five business day response window.

• If a deed holder contests the validity of a proposed filing after being contacted, the county clerk must cease the filing and submit a formal inquiry to the district attorney to investigate whether the filing is fraudulent or legitimate.

• County clerk is not liable for damages to deed holders when the notification and verification processes outlined in the statute are properly followed.

• Effective date: November 1, 2025.