This ordinance requires notaries and those assisting with immigration documents to provide a city-prepared list of free or low-cost immigration legal services and consulates. It also allows the Human Rights Commission to help individuals file complaints against notaries or immigration consultants who may have violated legal requirements.
Ordinance amending the Police Code to require that individuals who notarize or assist people in completing immigration documents offer a document prepared by the City that identifies free or low-cost immigration legal services providers and consulates; and to authorize the Human Rights Commission to provide assistance to members of the public who wish to file a complaint with a state licensing or enforcement entity against a notary or immigration consultant who allegedly violated legal requirements applicable to their activities.
How it got here
The legislation originated from concerns about notary fraud affecting immigrants in San Francisco, leading to a proposed ordinance to enhance protections and provide resources.
The Board of Supervisors introduced an ordinance to amend the Police Code regarding non-legal immigration services, prompted by increasing reports of notary fraud affecting immigrants.
The Department of Human Resources was notified to assess the impact of the proposed legislation and fulfill any necessary meet and confer requirements.
Organizations like Chinese for Affirmative Action expressed support for the ordinance, highlighting the need for accurate legal information for immigrants.
The committee recommended the ordinance as amended, addressing concerns about notary fraud and the need for immigrant protections.
The Board of Supervisors passed the ordinance on first reading, moving it closer to final approval.
The Board of Supervisors finally passed the ordinance, which aims to require notaries to provide clients with information about legal services.
The Mayor approved the ordinance, finalizing its enactment and implementation.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
