ATLANTA – State Representatives Gabe Okoye (D-Lawrenceville) and Matt Reeves (R-Duluth) applaud the recent House passage of House Bill 1292, legislation that would combat real estate fraud by requiring identification to be provided when deeds are recorded by persons who are not licensed attorneys, financial institutions or realtors.
“The Georgia House has taken action to safeguard senior citizens and other vulnerable individuals from fraudsters seeking to unlawfully appropriate property,” said Rep. Okoye. “This proactive approach reflects a dedication to justice and integrity within the real estate sector, safeguarding the rights and interests of all citizens.”
“The Georgia House has acted to protect senior citizens, and to catch and punish predatory criminals who are trying to get their hands on real estate through deceptive and wrongful means,” said Rep. Reeves. “HB 1292 was filed in response to fraud upon senior citizens and other Georgia homeowners, when bad actors had recorded fraudulent deeds which had not been signed by the property owners. Implementing this measure would not only ensure the safety and security of older members of society, but also send a clear message to those who seek to take advantage of them.”
HB 1292 would require unlicensed people filing deeds to provide extensive information to Superior Court Clerks via the electronic filing system, so that information would be available in case of fraud relating to a deed being filed.
HB 1292 is also co-sponsored by Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington), Majority Leader Chuck Efstration (R-Auburn), Minority Leader James Beverly (D-Macon), Rep. Deborah Silcox (R-Sandy Springs) and Majority Caucus Chairman Bruce Williamson (R-Monroe).
HB 1292 passed with bipartisan support on Crossover Day, Thursday, February 29, 2024. The bill was assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee and could be eligible for consideration in the coming weeks.
The full text of HB 1292 may be found here.
*Editor’s note: A photo of Reps. Reeves and Okoye is attached.
Representative Matt Reeves represents the citizens of District 99, which includes portions of Gwinnett County. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Judiciary Committee and Secretary of the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee. He also serves on the Judiciary Non-Civil Committee.
Representative Gabe Okoye represents the citizens of District 102, which includes portions of Gwinnett County. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 and currently serves on the Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Human Relations & Aging and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.
###