An executive order signed Monday by Governor Mike Parson is meant to protect both notaries public and those who need their services.
Executive Order 20-08 suspends a statutory requirement that a notary public must conduct the notarization of official documents while the signer appears in person in front of him or her.
The order, requested by Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, allows for the use of audio-video technology to complete the personal appearance requirement.
Already-registered notaries must register as electronic notaries public. Details on registration and the personal appearance suspension are on the Secretary of State’s website at sos.mo.gov.
The order is valid until May 15 unless it’s extended.
