S.B. No. 647 amends Section 51.901 of the Government Code to enhance the procedures for filing or recording documents that convey interests in real or personal property, particularly in cases where fraud is suspected. The bill requires clerks to provide written notice to relevant parties when a document is believed to be fraudulent, specifically if it purports to create a lien or assert a claim against property. New provisions clarify that a document is presumed fraudulent if it does not comply with legal requirements or is filed by an inmate. Additionally, the bill introduces a presumption of non-fraudulence if the filer provides supporting documentation, such as a contract signed by the property owner.

The bill also establishes protections for county clerks who act in good faith regarding the filing or recording of potentially fraudulent documents, ensuring they are immune from liability for their decisions. Furthermore, it stipulates that any additional documentation submitted for verification is confidential and exempt from public disclosure. The changes will apply only to documents filed or recorded after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 51.901, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12.003, Property Code 12.001 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12, Property Code 12, Government Code 51)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 51.901, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12.003 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12, Property Code 12, Government Code 51)
Engrossed: Government Code 51.901, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12.003 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12, Property Code 12, Government Code 51)
House Committee Report: Government Code 51.901, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12.003 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12, Property Code 12, Government Code 51)
Enrolled: Government Code 51.901, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12.003 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 12, Property Code 12, Government Code 51)