1.Nevada Overhauls Notary and Document Prep Rules (AB72)

Nevada’s Assembly Bill 72 introduces a wide range of reforms impacting both notaries public and document preparation services. While some provisions took effect immediately, the majority will become effective on January 1, 2026. Among the most notable changes is the Secretary of State’s new authority to adopt and enforce a Code of Professional Responsibility for notaries, which may result in suspension or revocation for violations. Notarial officers may now refuse to perform acts they believe to be unlawful or when identification standards are not met.

Document preparation services face enhanced bonding requirements, with bond amounts scaling up based on the number of entities under which services are provided. The bill also tightens eligibility criteria, barring individuals disbarred from legal practice or convicted of crimes involving fraud or dishonesty. Finally, documents obtained in investigations of document prep providers will now be deemed confidential and shielded from public disclosure.

2.Ohio Finalizes Notary Updates Effective June 10, 2025

Ohio has adopted a set of regulatory changes that take effect June 10, 2025, focusing on definitions, education, online notarization, and complaint resolution. The definition of “notary public” is now formally established as a commission—not a professional license—issued by the Secretary of State. New applicants must complete an approved education and testing program, which includes training on ethics and avoidance of unauthorized legal practice.

Online notarization also receives new structure. Notaries must complete specialized training and maintain secure electronic journals for all remote acts. Lastly, the Secretary of State has broadened authority to investigate and discipline notaries for improper conduct, including performing notarizations without required formalities.

3.Texas Targets Fraud with New Criminal Penalties (SB 693)

Texas has enacted Senate Bill 693, which becomes effective September 1, 2025, creating a criminal offense for misuse of notary seals. Under the law, it will be a Class A misdemeanor to knowingly affix a legitimate or counterfeit notary seal to a fraudulent document, or to attempt to file such a document with a court or government agency. A counterfeit seal is defined broadly, including unauthorized scanned or digital images that resemble official notary stamps.

In addition to these criminal penalties, the bill strengthens education and compliance expectations for new notaries. It also expands what qualifies as “good cause” for suspending or revoking commissions, and introduces a felony offense for notarizing documents without the signer being present—particularly if the document involves real estate transactions.

4.Final Thoughts

These updates reflect a national trend of tightening notary standards and increasing accountability for document handling professionals. If your business relies on notarial services or document preparation—especially in states like Nevada, Ohio, or Texas—it’s essential to stay current on these rules to avoid compliance missteps and mitigate risk. As always, we’ll continue to monitor these and other regulatory changes to help keep you informed.