Remote notarization in effect
DES MOINES — The in-person requirement for notarizing documents is temporarily waived for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, Gov. Kim Reynolds declared earlier this week. The requirements are subject to guidance provided by Iowa Secretary of State of State Paul Pate.
A new law allowing remote notarization in Iowa was scheduled to take effect on July 1. Reynolds’ declaration accelerates the timeline.
“I’ve been a longtime advocate for remote notarization as long as the integrity measures are kept in place,” Pate said. “During this crisis, waiving the in-person requirement is a necessity. We want to help Iowans conduct important business and other vital transactions while maintaining social distancing. Remote notarization will help commerce continue.”