SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson’s legislation to allow individuals with felony convictions to apply to become a notary has passed the Senate.
“Public safety and accountability go hand in hand with opportunity,” Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “With proper standards and oversight, enabling reformed individuals to serve as notaries recognizes growth, responsibility and the value of redemption.”
Under current law, individuals who have been convicted of a felony cannot apply to become a notary. House Bill 4277 would allow individuals who have completed all requirements of felony sentences to apply to become a notary so long as it has been 10 years since the completion of their sentence.
The measure would only allow the individual to apply for appointment and commission as a notary, it does not guarantee a position. The applicant must still go through the typical process involved in becoming a notary.
House Bill 4277 passed the Senate Wednesday.
