House Passes MBA-Supported Federal RON Bill
The U.S. House of Representatives has officially passed H.R. 1059, the SECURE Notarization Act—a bipartisan, MBA-supported bill that establishes federal minimum standards for Remote Online Notarization (RON). This marks a significant milestone in creating a unified national framework to complement the 40+ state RON laws already in place.
What the SECURE Notarization Act Does
Introduced by Reps. Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.) and Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), the legislation creates a consistent nationwide standard for electronic and remote notarizations. Key provisions include:
- Establishing minimum federal standards for RON practices nationwide.
- Requiring federal courts to recognize notarizations performed by a notarial officer of any state.
- Requiring each state to recognize notarizations from any other state when related to a public act, record, judicial proceeding, or interstate commerce.
Representative Armstrong emphasized the bill’s importance, noting the pandemic’s role in highlighting the need for modernization and secure digital processes. RON provides a safe, convenient way for consumers to complete important documents without in-person requirements.
MBA’s Support and Industry Impact
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) has consistently supported national and state RON legislation. MBA President & CEO Robert Broeksmit praised the House for advancing the bill, emphasizing how the minimum federal standards align with the MBA-ALTA model RON legislation and MISMO standards.
Broeksmit noted that the bill strengthens fraud prevention while improving the mortgage closing experience for consumers. It also preserves state flexibility by allowing states to implement their own RON regulations within the federal framework.
The MBA’s Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA) recently issued a Call to Action urging members to support the bill. This advocacy played a key role in the bill’s momentum.
Enhanced Fraud Prevention and Security
Bill Killmer, MBA Senior Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs, highlighted that H.R. 1059 includes essential security features, such as:
- Tamper-evident technology for electronic notarizations
- Multi-factor authentication for identity verification
- Audio-visual recording requirements for the notarial act
Killmer reaffirmed that the bill strengthens and complements the 42 state RON laws currently in place, ensuring uniformity without limiting state autonomy.
Next Steps in the Senate
With the House passage complete, MBA and its partners are now working to build support for the Senate companion bill. The goal is to secure full congressional approval and deliver nationwide RON availability in the 118th Congress.
The SECURE Notarization Act represents a pivotal shift toward a more accessible, fraud-resistant, and efficient notarization system across the United States.
For businesses seeking compliant, modern Remote Online Notarization solutions, visit
ProNotary.com to learn how your organization can adopt and leverage RON technology.
