First close vote of the session

In the first true Roll Call vote of the House this session, we were able to get my HB1299 through to enable circuit clerks/county recorders to begin accepting and recording real estate instuments (deeds, mortgages, etc) electronically (companion bill was HB1298). The controversy came from the increased fees associated with the service ($8 to $15 for the first page and from $3 to $5 for all additional pages). We'll still be be below the regional average, but lots of good points were raised, and the bill was in serious jeopardy.

I needed 51 votes and got 52. The roll was called and all 52 'yeas' stayed in their seats, which is required by the rules. I anticipate that an amendment will be offered in the Senate to fix an issue that may adversely impact banks punitively, since the assignment of instruments was added to the legislation. It will be sponsored in the Senate by Sens. Steele and Broadway.

Regardless, if this measure is signed into law, we'll be able to access real estate instruments from the comfort of our homes and offices (just like we currently access legislation up here at the Capitol). Hopefully, we'll be able to access all public records in the same manner within a few years if this fee generates a sufficient amount of revenue for automation of all types. The Federal court system has already implemented this type of filing, and it's only a matter of time until it's done in all courthouses and city halls nationwide. Here's the roll call: