Pandemic-era remote notarization rules to continue as Maine works towards permanent new laws

On Wednesday, Governor Janet Mills signed a new law to temporarily enshrine pandemic-era remote notarization practices into law while the Secretary of State, interest groups, and consumer privacy experts work towards permanent practices for remote, online notarization.

LD 1399 http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1033&item=3&snum=130 , sponsored by Rep. Vicki Doudera, D-Camden, continues the allowance from the April 8, 2020 Executive Order which temporarily suspended provisions of Maine law that require the physical presence of a notary or witness, with certain exceptions until Jan. 1, 2023. This was to ensure that Maine people, especially those who are elderly or have underlying health conditions, could conduct important business that requires sworn statements or affidavits with minimal in-person interaction.

Under the new law, Secretary Bellows will convene a working group made up of the Maine Association of Realtors, the Maine State Bar Association, Maine Bankers Association, Maine Credit Union League, Legal Services for the Elderly, Maine Registers of Deeds Association, Maine Real Estate and Development Association, Uniform Law Commission, Maine Probate and Trust Law Advisory Commission and others. With input from these organizations, the Secretary of State will conduct a study on remote and online notarization and submit a report, including recommended legislation, to the Legislature by Feb. 1, 2022.

Megan Diver

Megan has worked in Maine politics for more than ten years and all of her professional career, having served in many roles for elected officials (including former Secretary of State Charlie Summers), in-house with the Maine Association of REALTORS®, legislative specialist at Pierce Atwood LLP providing lobbying services and support to Pierce Atwood’s government relations clients and most recently senior government relations specialist at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. Megan currently is the Vice President at the Maine Energy Marketers Association, utilizing her vast knowledge and legislative experience at the State House to represent MEMA on policies relating to the Association and its members.