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Bill

SB 693

Relating to notaries public; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Rafael Anchía and 4 co-sponsors

Texas SB 693 creates criminal penalties for notarial misconduct and adjusts notary fees, effective September 1, 2025, to combat fraud in document authentication.

Effective on 9/1/25
#continuingeducation(s0234) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #notaries(i0538) #occupationalregulation--othertrades&professions(i0541) #recordsmanagement(s0205) #secretaryofstate(v0042)
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Bill Summary · SB 693

Legislative bill overview

SB 693 modifies Texas law governing notaries public by creating new criminal offenses related to notarial misconduct and establishing or adjusting fees associated with notary services. The bill became effective September 1, 2025, after passing both chambers and being filed without the Governor's signature (allowing it to become law automatically).

Why is this important

Notaries public are critical for authenticating documents in real estate transactions, legal proceedings, and financial matters. Strengthening criminal penalties for notarial misconduct protects the public from fraud and document forgery, while fee adjustments affect both notary businesses and consumers who require notarization services.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of new criminal offenses: The specific conduct now criminalized and severity of penalties may be debated—some argue stronger enforcement protects consumers, others may view it as overreach affecting notary professions
  • Fee structure changes: Adjusted fees could burden lower-income Texans needing notarization or benefit notary service providers depending on the direction and amount of changes
  • Implementation clarity: Without seeing detailed statutory language, uncertainty exists regarding how broadly criminal provisions apply and whether they adequately distinguish between intentional fraud and administrative errors

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

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