OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate unanimously approved a measure on Monday that would modernize court clerk services. Senate Bill 569, authored by Sen. Joe Newhouse, R-Tulsa, would allow certified copies of county land records to be signed, notarized and recorded electronically.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the benefits of being able to provide timely services in a virtual manner,” Newhouse said. “Providing electronically certified copies would be more convenient and cost effective for stakeholders since it would eliminate the need to physically appear at the clerk’s office or use mail services to obtain the documents.”

Under the measure, the fee for an electronically certified copy would be the same as a paper copy.

“It’s important to note that the measure doesn’t require certified electronic copies to be used, rather it simply allows it,” Newhouse said. “Electronic certification of records has been done in other states for years, and it’s time that Oklahoma catches up and modernizes our processes to benefit all Oklahomans.”

The measure next moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration where Rep. Chris Kannady, R-Oklahoma City, will carry the bill.

For more information, contact: Sen. Joe Newhouse at 405-521-5675, or email [email protected].