SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB
2565
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Government Operations, February 23, 1996
Title: An act relating to the acceptance of faxed documents for filing with the secretary of state.
Brief Description: Filing faxed documents.
Sponsors: House Committee on Government Operations (originally sponsored by Representatives Hickel, Costa and Chappell).
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations: 2/15/96, 2/23/96 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Sheldon, Vice Chair; Goings, Hale, Heavey, McCaslin and Winsley.
Staff: Rod McAulay (786-7754)
Background: Statutes require that various documents be filed with the Secretary of State. These documents include documentation relating to general incorporation, charitable trusts, professional service corporations, charitable solicitations, trademark registration, cooperative associations, Massachusetts trusts, nonprofit corporations, fraternal societies, building associations, granges, fish marketing, limited partnerships, and limited liability companies. There is no authorization permitting these documents to be initially delivered to the Secretary of State by electronic transmission.
Summary of Bill: Documents required to be filed with the Secretary of State may be delivered by electronic transmission. If the original document must be signed, the original shall be subsequently filed. Deadlines for filing original documents and filing fees for facsimile filings shall be established by rule adopted by the Secretary of State.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Testimony For: The House amendment will allow interactive filing on the internet. It brings the filing process up to date. It can save businesses money. It will not adversely affect accuracy or validity of filings.
Testimony Against: None.
Testified: Linda McIntosh, Office of Secretary of State; Gary Smith, IBA.