The bill, H.B. No. 4654, proposes the addition of Section 406.027 to Subchapter A, Chapter 406 of the Government Code, establishing a criminal offense for the misuse of a notary seal or the use of a counterfeit seal on fraudulent documents or instruments. The bill defines a "counterfeit seal" as any mark that closely resembles a legitimate notary seal but is not authorized by the secretary of state, including photocopies or electronic reproductions. It specifies that a person commits an offense if they knowingly affix such a seal to a document presumed to be fraudulent and attempt to file or record it with various court clerks.

The offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, and the bill allows for prosecution under this section in addition to any other applicable laws. The legislation is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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Introduced: ()