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Senate approves bill authorizing 'digital signatures' for commerce and court use
Summary
Senate passes SB 82 to authorize digital signatures for commercial transactions and court filings, with initial costs funded through a Commerce Service Fund and a privately operated repository; bill moved to third reading unanimously.
The Utah Senate on Feb. 6 approved a bill to authorize the use of "digital signatures" for commercial transactions and in court systems, with the Legislature expecting initial implementation costs to be paid from a Commerce Service Fund rather than general revenue.
"The bill, in essence, enables us to move into the electronic highway for the transaction of commercial business and also allows us in the court systems to enter pleas and to enter judgments," Senator Petersen said, describing digital signatures as a "unique and confidential method of signing legal documents." He added the proposal anticipates a privately owned and operated repository and a fee model for individuals obtaining digital keys.
Senator McAllister and others clarified the fiscal note: while there may be minor capital costs to set up state hardware, the repository and most costs would be borne by users through a service model rather than general fund appropriations. Supporters said the technology could be applied broadly, including in courts and health care.
The Senate placed SB 82 at the bottom of the third‑reading calendar after a recorded unanimous vote of 27 yes, 0 no, and 2 absent.
