An Act Concerning Fees Assessed By A Notary Public.
The proposed increase in fees for notarial services carries implications for both the public and the operation of notaries. By raising fees, the legislation acknowledges the significance of notarial acts in legal and commercial transactions. Supporters of the bill argue that the increase is justifiable given increasing costs associated with administering notarial services while providing necessary income for notaries, who serve a crucial role in validating documents.
Senate Bill 00459, titled An Act Concerning Fees Assessed By A Notary Public, aims to amend the existing statute regarding fees charged by notaries public in the State. The bill proposes an increase in the fee for any notarial act from five dollars to seven dollars. This increase is meant to reflect the evolving economic landscape and the value of the services provided by notaries. The bill has been introduced by Senator Kissel and is currently referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
While the bill is primarily straightforward in its objective, it may encounter contention from those who view any increase in fees as an impediment to access to legal services. Potential opponents might argue that raising the fees for notaries could disproportionately affect individuals or businesses in lower-income brackets, potentially making some legal processes more expensive and less accessible. Thus, discussions regarding this bill could focus on balancing the financial viability for notaries against the need for affordable legal services in the community.