Title:
|
REPORT - ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 1-06 TO THE SANTA ROSA CITY CODE, AUTHORIZING THE USE OF ELECTRONIC RECORDS, AND ELECTRONIC AND DIGITAL SIGNATURES
BACKGROUND: The use of electronic signatures on legally-binding documents has become increasingly prevalent in the private sector but has yet to find widespread adoption in public agencies. There are many benefits to utilizing electronic signatures including cutting down on paper, time, and costs that are associated with transmitting and approving physical documents.
In 1995, the California legislature passed a statute authorizing public entities to accept “digital signatures” if and only if they comply with stringent verification procedures established by the Secretary of State. (Gov. Code Section 16.5.) In 1999, California adopted a version of the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), guaranteeing that electronic signatures would have the same legal effect as a “wet” or manual signature. (Civ. Code Sections 1633.1-1633.17.) In ...
|