This bill amends Section 12.001 of the Property Code to establish new requirements for recording instruments that convey real property. Specifically, it mandates that such instruments must be signed and acknowledged by the grantor in the presence of credible witnesses or certified by an authorized officer. Additionally, the instrument must be accompanied by a notice of real property title transfer that complies with new provisions outlined in Chapter 16. The bill introduces confidentiality measures for the notice, stating that it will be retained separately by the county clerk and is not subject to public disclosure, except when requested by a state agency for governmental purposes.

Furthermore, the bill adds Chapter 16 to the Property Code, detailing the requirements for the notice of real property title transfer. This includes the necessity for the notice to contain specific information about the grantor and grantee, such as names, addresses, and identification numbers. The commissioner of the General Land Office is tasked with prescribing a form for this notice, which must be signed by both parties. The changes will take effect for instruments filed on or after January 1, 2026, with existing laws remaining in effect for earlier filings. The commissioner is also required to adopt necessary rules for implementation by December 31, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Property Code 12.001 (Property Code 12)