The introduction of SB700 represents a significant shift in how notarial services are provided to individuals with disabilities. By mandating reasonable accommodations, the bill enhances accessibility and inclusivity in legal proceedings, thereby aligning Maryland's laws with broader national efforts to support individuals with disabilities. As the law stands currently, notaries are not explicitly required to accommodate individuals with disabilities in their signing processes, and this bill seeks to close that gap.
Summary
Senate Bill 700 aims to expand the responsibilities of notaries public in Maryland by requiring them to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with physical disabilities. Specifically, it addresses the challenges faced by individuals who are blind or have limited ability to sign documents without assistance. The bill stipulates that a notary public must read the entire record to a blind individual before notarizing their signature, ensuring that the individual can consent to the notarization fully informed. This change seeks to create a more accessible system for notarial acts in the state.
Contention
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step toward inclusivity, it may encounter some resistance regarding its implementation. Notaries may have concerns about the additional responsibilities and potential liabilities associated with becoming more involved in the signing process for individuals with disabilities. There may also be discussions about defining the scope of 'reasonable accommodations,' which could lead to variability in how notaries interpret and apply the requirements. Overall, the passage of SB700 will likely stimulate dialogue about accessibility practices across various professional fields.