Montana Gov. Bullock Signs Law Allowing for Remote Online Notarization

Montana is allowing for cutting-edge remote online notarization with a new bill that Gov. Steve Bullock signed into law on Wednesday, April 3^rd. This law will allow for notaries in the state to certify documents using secure online means, rather than the current in-person process. Remote online notarization will allow the already growing financial technology sector in Montana to add a critical capability to their companies, as well as open up the opportunity for existing notaries to have a new way to add value to their services.

“This bill will continue to propel Montana into the 21^st century,” remarked Representative Becky Beard during the signing.

Under the new law, notarial officers located in the state of Montana will be permitted to perform electronic notarization remotely, in real time, using secure video conferencing, and independent identity verification. This could have a significant impact on attracting new businesses to Montana and allowing existing businesses to expand their services within the state.

Figure Technologies, a San Francisco based company with an office in Helena had a direct impact from the recent legislation.

“House Bill 370 provides a simple, straightforward process for a notary to become capable of perming remote electronic notarizations, explained Matt Conroy, SVP of Engineering at Figure Technologies. “Figure pioneered the use of video eNotaries last year, saving consumers time and money by enabling them to complete the entire notarization process online in just a few minutes. The passage of House Bill 370 sets Montana apart and will generate additional jobs for Montana residents.”

The new law puts Montana on the forefront of notary capabilities in the country. Remote online notarization is convenient for consumers and notaries alike and has additional security measures in place to prevent fraud. Those include video recordings of all notarial acts, an electronic record of the notarization, and multi-factor identity verification.

“The passage of HB 370 is a powerful demonstration of bipartisanship and a significant step toward making the important work that notaries do more convenient and competitive in Montana,” said Ken Fichtler, Chief Business Development Officer of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

The law is expected to attract significant interest from the business community.

Inquiries may be directed to Julia Bryant, Montana Governor’s Office of Economic Development at 406-444-3702 or at [email protected].