Who has the authority to appoint and commission notaries in Illinois?

The Illinois Secretary of State holds the authority to appoint and commission notaries in Illinois. This responsibility is clearly outlined in the state's laws regarding notarial acts. The Secretary of State oversees various aspects of state governance, including the regulation of notaries public, ensuring they meet specific criteria and adhere to the legal requirements established by state law.

The process involves the Secretary of State reviewing applications, verifying qualifications, and ultimately granting a commission to individuals who successfully meet these requirements. This centralized role helps maintain a standardized process for notary commissions within the state.

Other entities listed, such as the Governor, Attorney General, and General Assembly, do not have this particular authority. The Governor may have other executive powers, and the Attorney General’s role involves legal representation and enforcement of laws, while the General Assembly is responsible for legislation, not for directly appointing notaries.