What's Happening?
The California Secretary of State has submitted a budget change proposal (BCP) requesting $9.8 million for the 2026-27 fiscal year to advance the Notary Automation Program Replacement project (NAP 2.0). This initiative, which began in 2022, aims to modernize
the state's notary public commission data system, which is currently based on a 30-year-old legacy solution. The existing system is used by over 146,000 notaries public in California. The modernization effort is driven by the need to integrate current and future technologies, as well as to comply with Senate Bill 696, which mandates full online capabilities for public notaries by 2030. The project has already completed several phases, including a business analysis and alternatives analysis, and is now preparing to release a request for proposals (RFP) this spring.
Why It's Important?
The modernization of California's notary system is crucial for improving efficiency and security in handling notary public commission data and apostille requests. The current system's outdated technology poses challenges in integrating with modern solutions, which can hinder the state's ability to provide timely and accurate services. By upgrading to a more advanced system, the state aims to enhance the functionality and reliability of its notary services, ultimately benefiting the large number of notaries and the public they serve. Additionally, compliance with Senate Bill 696 will ensure that California remains at the forefront of digital transformation in public services, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
What's Next?
The next steps for the Notary Automation Program Replacement project include the release of a request for proposals (RFP) this spring, which will invite vendors to submit bids for the development of the new system. The project team will continue to gather requirements and work on the development of the prime vendor RFP. As the project progresses, stakeholders, including notaries and the public, will likely be engaged to provide feedback and ensure the new system meets their needs. The successful implementation of this project will require ongoing collaboration between the California Secretary of State, technology vendors, and other government agencies.
