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Panel advances bill to clarify online notarization rules ahead of 2030 implementation
Summary
Assemblymember Erwin’s AB 1977, sponsored by the Secretary of State, would fix ambiguities in California’s online notarization framework (SB 696, 2023) to speed implementation and add clarity on authentication, licensing and fees; the subcommittee voted to advance the bill (vote recorded in committee).
Assemblymember Erwin presented AB 1977 as a technical-but‑important follow-up to SB 696 (2023), which established a framework for licensed California notaries to perform online notarizations. Tim Cromartie, deputy in the Secretary of State’s office, told the subcommittee the office identified ambiguities and omissions that slow implementation, and AB 1977 resolves those inconsistencies by updating definitions, licensing and training requirements and clarifying digital‑seal authentication. The bill was amended to clarify when notaries may charge fees.
Representatives of the National Notary Association and the California League of Independent Notaries testified in support, thanking the sponsor and the Secretary of State’s office for collaborative amendments. Committee members asked no substantive questions; the chairman noted the motion to send the bill along to the Senate Appropriations Committee, and roll‑call results on the record showed the motion passed (committee recorded the tally and placed the item on call during the calendar sequence).
Why it matters: This bill is intended to remove legal and procedural friction that has slowed the rollout of remote notarization in California. By aligning statutory language with practical implementation and clarifying fee and authentication rules, the bill aims to support secure, accessible remote notarization for consumers.
Next steps: The subcommittee advanced AB 1977 to the next committee; sponsors said they will continue to work with stakeholders on technical clarifications.
