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HB 2696

Providing for the modernization of notarization and the notary public process with respect to real estate documents for the purpose of mitigation of real estate document-related fraud, requiring the development, implementation and administration of a two-tiered authentication system for notarization of real estate documents and requiring use of a 3D biometric antifraud system by all notaries public by December 31, 2027.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas requires all notaries to use 3D biometric authentication systems for real estate documents by 2027 to combat fraud through modernized verification technology.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2696

Legislative bill overview

HB 2696 mandates Kansas notaries public to implement a two-tiered authentication system and adopt 3D biometric antifraud technology for notarizing real estate documents by December 31, 2027. The bill aims to reduce fraud in real estate transactions through modernized verification procedures and technological safeguards.

Why is this important

Real estate fraud costs consumers and lenders billions annually, with forged notarizations enabling title theft and fraudulent mortgages. Implementing standardized biometric authentication could significantly strengthen the integrity of property transactions and reduce identity-related document fraud, though it represents a substantial operational shift for the notary profession.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Notaries would bear expenses for biometric technology, software, and training by the 2027 deadline, potentially burdening smaller operators or increasing notarization fees for consumers
  • Technical feasibility and standardization: The bill requires defining what constitutes adequate "two-tiered authentication" and "3D biometric" systems without clear specifications, leaving implementation details unclear and potentially creating inconsistent standards across notaries
  • Privacy and data security concerns: Collecting and storing 3D biometric data raises questions about data breaches, unauthorized access, identity theft risks, and whether appropriate safeguards are mandated in the legislation

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

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