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SB 1028

Notaries public; requiring certain national criminal history record check; increasing certain fees and bond requirements for commission. Effective date.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jerry Alvord and 1 co-sponsor

Oklahoma now requires national criminal background checks for notaries and increases their fees and bond requirements to reduce fraud risk and protect consumers.

Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/15/2025
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1028

Legislative bill overview

SB 1028 strengthens notary public oversight in Oklahoma by mandating national criminal history record checks for notary applicants and commissioners. The bill also increases the financial requirements, raising fees and bond amounts that notaries must maintain to operate legally.

Why is this important

Notaries authenticate signatures and documents that have real legal and financial consequences—from real estate transactions to powers of attorney. By requiring criminal background checks, the state aims to prevent individuals with disqualifying offenses from accessing positions where they could commit fraud or forge documents. Higher bonding requirements provide greater financial recourse for victims of notary misconduct.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Increased fees and bond requirements may discourage individuals from becoming notaries, potentially reducing availability in rural or underserved areas where notary services are already scarce
  • Scope of criminal disqualifications: The bill doesn't specify which crimes trigger permanent or temporary disqualification, creating uncertainty about who qualifies and potential discrimination concerns
  • Implementation timeline: Existing notaries may face retroactive compliance costs or sudden fee increases without adequate transition periods

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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