Gov. Abbott Approves Emergency Use of Remote Ink-Signed Notarizations (RIN)
Temporary suspension of statute in effect until the earlier of May 30, 2020, or termination of current disaster declaration


April 29, 2020 

At TLTA's request, Gov. Abbott today announced emergency executive action temporarily suspending traditional notary regulations to allow for Remote Ink-Signed Notarizations (RIN). The conditions that will apply whenever this suspension is invoked can be found here.
 
Read the Governor's Press Release »
 
Under RIN, a "wet signature" is still used, but the signature is witnessed by a notary via video and audio channels, and the notary seal is affixed at a later time. This temporary suspension of state notary statute is effective immediately and will be in effect until the earlier of May 30, 2020, or termination of the state's current coronavirus-related disaster declaration.
 
We urge you to carefully read the governor’s executive action in full to understand all the requirements before utilizing this temporary process to comply with COVID-19 public health protocols. 
 
Complimentary RIN Webinar 3 p.m. Tomorrow
TLTA will host a complimentary webinar tomorrow to walk you through the temporary RIN process and help answer your questions. This complimentary webinar will be presented by TLTA President-Elect John Bruce, Senior Vice President, Heritage Title Company, Austin.
 
Register for Tomorrow's RIN Webinar Now »
 
TLTA Is Grateful Gov. Abbott Adopted Our Proposed Solution
After receiving feedback from our members regarding limited implementation of remote online notarizations (RON) in the marketplace, TLTA's board proposed the temporary, crisis-driven RIN solution that Gov. Abbott adopted to support real estate closings under COVID-19 public health protocols. We are grateful for the governor's leadership on this special accommodation to support our state's real estate economy. TLTA also appreciates the support of our related industry partners in this effort.
 
Read TLTA's Proposed Emergency Executive Action Content »
Read Letter TLTA Sent Gov. Abbott Along With Our Proposal »
Read Letter from Texas Association of Realtors Supporting Our Proposal »
 
If you have questions or comments, please contact us at tlta@tlta.com or 512.472.6593.