The bill amends the Local Government Code and the Property Code to enhance the recording requirements for documents related to real property. Specifically, it mandates that a county clerk must require individuals presenting documents for filing to provide photo identification. The clerk is prohibited from charging a fee for copying or recording this identification. Additionally, the bill clarifies that an instrument conveying real property cannot be recorded unless it is signed and acknowledged by the grantor in the presence of credible witnesses or certified by an authorized officer, and that the individual presenting the instrument must also provide photo identification.

These changes aim to improve the integrity and security of real property transactions by ensuring that proper identification is verified during the recording process. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses; otherwise, it will become effective 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 191.010, Property Code 12.001 (Local Government Code 191, Property Code 12)