House Bill 461 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 16, Part 3, to enhance the requirements for online notaries public. The bill introduces a new requirement for applicants to complete a course of instruction on online notarization and pass an examination administered by the course provider. This course must cover notarial laws, technology procedures for online notarizations, and ethical requirements for online notaries. Additionally, the bill specifies that the course must be approved by the secretary of state or their authorized representative.

The bill also modifies existing language regarding the certification process for applicants. It removes the previous language and replaces it with a requirement for applicants to certify that they have reviewed, understood, and will comply with the relevant laws and rules. These changes aim to ensure that online notaries are adequately trained and informed about their responsibilities, thereby enhancing the integrity and reliability of online notarization practices in Tennessee. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 8-16-306(b), 8-16-306, 8-16-306(c)(7)