Chancery clerk; require to remove social security numbers from land transfer deeds.
Impact
If enacted, HB 382 will mandate that the chancery clerk removes social security numbers from land transfer deeds, thereby protecting sensitive personal information. Furthermore, it will likely lead to the adoption of digital solutions for filing and storing documents, aligning the processes of the chancery clerk's office with modern technological capabilities. The bill is set to come into effect on July 1, 2024, signaling a shift toward more contemporary practices in clerical duties.
Summary
House Bill 382 aims to revise the duties of the chancery clerk in Mississippi by amending Section 9-5-137 of the Mississippi Code of 1972. The primary focus of this bill is to enhance the efficiency of record-keeping related to legal documents and to address concerns regarding privacy, specifically regarding the handling of social security numbers in land transfer deeds. The bill emphasizes the necessity of preserving all records, files, and proceedings, and encourages the use of electronic methods for storage in addition to traditional physical record-keeping methods.
Contention
While the bill seems to be straightforward, there may be contention around the implementation of electronic filing and how existing records will be managed or transitioned to this new system. Concerns could arise regarding the costs associated with upgrading technology and training staff to use these systems effectively. Additionally, the requirement to remove social security numbers might spark debates over privacy standards and how to maintain essential public records without compromising individual privacy.