TLTA News

TLTA Delegation Travels to D.C. for ALTA Advocacy Summit

(9/26/2018)
A delegation of TLTA members attended the American Land Title Association Advocacy Summit 2018, which was held in Washington D.C. May 21-23.

Regulators Seek Interpretation Amendments on Home Equity Lending

(9/26/2018)
As home equity lending changes become reality, state regulatory authorities have proposed interpretation amendments to clarify the finer points of SJR 60.

Breaking News: Basic Manual Updates Approved by TDI

(9/26/2018)
On Friday, June 1 TDI announced that Insurance Commissioner Kent Sullivan signed a final order on agenda items that update, correct, and clarify rules and forms in the Basic Manual of Title Insurance.

TDI Quarterly Audit Results Published

(9/26/2018)
The following is a summary of recent TDI audits, violations, and enforcement actions from December 2017 through February 2018. Read TDI's complete summary of operations for the quarter, or read the key statistics herein.

Breaking News: Proposed Online Notary Rules Published by Texas Secretary of State

(9/26/2018)
The Texas Secretary of State today published via the Texas Register these online notary rules.

Breaking News: TDI Proposes More Amendments to Basic Manual

(6/20/2018)
On Wednesday, June 20 the Texas Department of Insurance announced it has proposed rule amendments to the Title Insurance Basic Manual. The proposals focus on licensing and continuing education.

Compliance Update: First GARC Fee Due May 1

(4/16/2018)
Title agents are required to collect a Guaranty Assessment Recoupment Charge (GARC) fee for each owners and loan (mortgagee) policy issued throughout 2018, and then remit these funds quarterly to TTIGA. GARC funds for Q1 must be submitted by May 1.

Compliance Update: FinCEN Renews Order for Bexar County through Sept. 16, 2018

(3/23/2018)
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has again extended its Geographic Targeting Order (GTO) issued in July 2016 and renewed in February 2017 and August 2017 (with changes) for another 180 days.

Breaking News: Fidelity National to Acquire Stewart

(3/19/2018)
Fidelity National Financial, Inc. and Stewart Information Services Corporation today announced that Fidelity will acquire Stewart through a merger agreement with an equity value of approximately $1.2 billion.

Warning: Do Not Respond to Recent Fraudulent Email

(3/7/2018)
We have received reports of a spam message that has been sent to many of you. This message was disguised to look like it was sent from TLTA; however, it was not. TLTA doesn't use Docusign to send files to members.

In Memoriam: TLTA Past President Ronald F. Yates

(3/5/2018)
It is with the greatest sadness that we report that TLTA Past President Ronnie Yates passed away unexpectedly on Saturday night. Ronnie served as President of TLTA in 1996-1997 and was named “TLTA Title Person of the Year” in 2000.

Warning: Do Not Respond to Recent Fraudulent Email

(2/26/2018)
An important update on a recent email phishing scam.We have received reports of a spam message that has been sent to many of you. This message was disguised to look like it was sent from TLTA; however, the sender's address does not end in @tlta.com

Breaking News: TDI Proposes Rule Amendments to Basic Manual

(2/19/2018)
On Friday, Feb. 16 TDI announced it has proposed rule amendments to update, correct, and clarify rules and forms in the Basic Manual of Title Insurance. Rule proposals submitted by TLTA in 2016 to address “housekeeping items” in the Basic Manual

TDI Quarterly Audit Results Published

(1/31/2018)
The following is a summary of recent TDI audits, violations and enforcement actions from September through November 2017. Read TDI's complete summary of operations for the quarter or read the key statistics below.

Texas Disclosure Form T-64

(1/22/2018)
Title Agents Advised to Use Texas Disclosure Form T-64 to Correct All Incomplete or Incorrect Disclosures on Closing Disclosure

House and Senate Pass Tax Reform Package

(12/20/2017)
The House and Senate have passed a new tax bill that will be sent to the President. The title industry has been carefully reviewing provisions impacting real estate and small businesses and is still assessing the full bill. Read on for highlights.

TTIGA Releases GARC Fee Forms, Remittance Schedule

(12/13/2017)
The TTIGA website now has complete details about the GARC Fee, including remittance forms, due dates and FAQs.

Breaking News: Guaranty Assessment Recoupment Fee Set at $4.50 Per Policy During 2018

(12/1/2017)
Guaranty Assessment Recoupment Fee Set at $4.50 Per Policy During 2018; Guaranty Fee Suspended During That Time Effective Jan. 1, 2018

TDI News: GARC Order Expected Any Day

(11/28/2017)
As we have previously reported, the Texas Department of Insurance is expected to issue a Commissioner's order requiring all Texas title agents to collect a GARC fee on each owner and lender title insurance policy issued in the state beginning around

TTIGA News: Policy Guaranty Fee Suspended as of Jan. 1

(11/28/2017)
In anticipation of the Commissioner of Insurance's issuance of an order to begin collecting a GARC fee on insurance policies, TTIGA has suspended the collection of the Policy Guaranty Fee effective Jan. 1.

TLTA Disaster Relief Resources

(11/15/2017)
A repository of Hurricane Harvey recovery and assistance resources.

Breaking News: CFPB Director Richard Cordray Stepping Down

(11/15/2017)
On Wednesday, Nov. 15, CFPB Director Richard Cordray announced he would be stepping down at the end of the month.

The Future Is Bright for E-mortgages

(11/9/2017)
An overview of relevant laws and requirements, from ALTA.

House Republicans Unveil Tax Reform Package – Read the Highlights

(11/8/2017)
TLTA Federal Legislative Counsel Jim Hyland discusses the new tax reform plan.

ALTA Past President Details Wire Fraud Threats During Congressional Testimony; What TLTA Is Doing

(11/2/2017)
ALTA Past President Daniel D. Mennenoh ITP, NTP testifies before Congress; plus, what TLTA is doing to help keep your company safe.

Warning: Do Not Respond to Recent Fraudulent Email

(11/2/2017)
An important update on a recent email phishing scam.

Vote Yes on Proposition 2 on Nov. 7 to Make Home Equity Loans More Accessible for Texans

(11/1/2017)
TLTA joins several industry groups supporting this constitutional amendment.

Housing's Biggest Trade Groups, Including TLTA, Declare Support for Push to Change TRID

(10/26/2017)
A bill to change part of TRID has bipartisan support in Washington as well as with a coalition of many housing trade groups, including TLTA.

Vote for TLTA-Supported Proposition 2 to Make Home Equity Loans More Accessible for Texans

(10/25/2017)
TLTA supports Proposition 2 and encourages members to vote in favor of it.

TDI Issues Call for Agent Statistical Data

(10/16/2017)
The report for the calendar year ending Dec. 31, 2016, is due on Dec. 15, 2017; TLTA has a webinar scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 2.

ALTA Submits Letter to CFPB on TRID "Black Hole"

(10/13/2017)
ALTA submitted a letter to the CFPB urging the removal of the four-business day limit for resetting tolerances with both initial and corrected Closing Disclosures.

ALTA Launches Online Database for Title Insurance Agents

(10/9/2017)
The new ALTA Registry can provide provide confirmation of company names and contact information.

Bipartisan Push Begins in Congress to Change Part of CFPB's TRID Rule

(10/6/2017)
Both Democrat and Republican legislators are pushing for changes to TRID.

Senate Releases 2017 Interim Legislative Charges: Hurricane Harvey Response

(10/4/2017)
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor recently released the 2017 Interim Legislative Charges: Hurricane Harvey Response, which includes some items that may impact the title insurance industry.

Tax Reform and the Title Industry

(9/28/2017)
TLTA Federal Legislative Counsel James. E. Hyland, Esq. analyzes the tax reform blueprint and how it could impact the title insurance industry.

Gov. Abbott Appoints Commissioner of Insurance, Selects New Senior Staff Members

(9/27/2017)
Gov. Abbott recently appointed the new Commissioner of Insurance and made changes to his senior staff.

Reminder: TRID Allows for Partial Exemption for Housing Assistance Loans

(9/27/2017)
A reminder that TRID allows for a partial exemption from the disclosure requirements on certain loans.

Breaking News: Governor Abbott Appoints Kent Sullivan as Commissioner Of Insurance

(9/21/2017)
"We welcome Kent Sullivan as the new Commissioner and look forward to working with him and his staff at the Texas Department of Insurance," said Leslie Midgley, CAE, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Texas Land Title Association.

More Disaster Assistance Resources and Ways to Give Available

(9/20/2017)
The TLTA Disaster Relief Resources page has been updated to include more assistance resources and more ways to support fellow members.

TLTA Represents Industry at Hearing to Determine Guaranty Recoupment Fee

(9/13/2017)
A Jan. 1, 2018 effective date is anticipated.

Attorney General Agrees With TLTA's Recommendations in Opinion on County Clerks

(9/12/2017)
The AG's recently issued opinion was consistent with TLTA's submitted recommendations sent to the Attorney General's opinion committee.

Clarification to T-S1 Compliance Update

(8/30/2017)
TLTA has a brief addendum to the Aug. 24 Compliance Update.

Hurricane Harvey: News and a Message From TLTA

(8/30/2017)
An important update for our members.

Attention Title Agents: T-S1 Form Due to TDI Title Examinations Department by Sept. 30, 2017

(8/24/2017)
A reminder that the T-S1 form is due by Sept. 30, 2017.

Special Session Wrap-Up

(8/23/2017)
A summary of what passed, and what didn't pass, during the special session.

FinCEN Renews Order for Bexar County, Extends Regulations

(8/22/2017)
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has extended their GTO for Bexar County, and has added changes to the GTO as well.

TDI Call for Statistical Data Not Issued Yet

(8/16/2017)
An update on TDI's 2016 call for Statistical Data and 2015 data.

Cyber Technology Task Force Begins Work; TLTA Member Featured in ALTA Phishing Article

(8/9/2017)
Learn more about TLTA's important new committee and a recent ALTA article featuring a TLTA member.

Spoofed Email Appears to Come from ALTA CEO

(8/8/2017)
An important warning from ALTA about a phishing scam that is circulating.

New Study Released on How Dodd-Frank Has Impacted Closing Times

(8/8/2017)
The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University recently released a study about Dodd-Frank's impact on the time it takes to sell a home.

ALTA Releases Several Resources to Help Protect Title Companies and Customers From Wire Fraud

(8/2/2017)
ALTA recently released several tools to help title insurance companies and their customers prevent wire transfer fraud.

GSE Reform Update

(8/2/2017)
TLTA Federal Legislative Counsel Jim Hyland explains the background on GSE reform and how these changes could impact the title insurance industry.

Cordray Reportedly to Quit CFPB for Ohio Governor Race

(7/26/2017)
News reports indicate that CFPB director Richard Cordray is planning to leave the bureau and seek the 2018 Democratic nomination for governor of Ohio.

Roland Love Testifies Before House Committee on Business and Industry

(7/26/2017)
On Tuesday, July 25, TLTA member Roland Love testified before the Texas House Committee on Business and Industry on mechanic's liens and their impact on the title industry.

TLTA Monitoring "Innocent Buyers Bill"

(7/19/2017)
A proposed Constitutional amendment and the enabling legislation could protect Texas homebuyers.

CFPB Releases Changes to TRID

(7/12/2017)
The CFPB released updated changes to the TRID rule late on Friday, June 7; here's how those changes could impact your work.

Remind Customers to Watch Out for Mortgage Closing Scams

(7/12/2017)
Title insurance professionals and their customers need to watch out for email phishing scams this summer and beyond.

FTC, Realtors Warn Homebuyers About Mortgage Closing Cost Phishing Scam

(7/5/2017)
Scammers are using closing cost phishing scams to steal money from homebuyers; learn the warning signs of these fraudulent schemes.

Registration Now Open for the 2018 Land Title School of Texas

(7/5/2017)
This popular program often sells out, so register and book your hotel room today!

TLTA's 2017 Legislative Report Now Available

(6/29/2017)
View our Legislative Report on the 85th Session of the Texas Legislature.

Beware of Wire Fraud Schemes When Buying a Home

(6/28/2017)
ALTA has shared some important information for customers and title insurance companies on preventing wire fraud schemes.

ALTA, Other Housing Industry Trade Groups Call for CFPB Director to Be Replaced

(6/28/2017)
More than 20 housing industry trade groups, including ALTA, call for legislation that would change the CFPB's structure; plus, TLTA sends letter in support of Financial CHOICE Act.

Remote Tech News: Notaries Moving Online; Morgan Stanley Developing Online Application Tool

(6/21/2017)
Electronic notarization has been in the news a lot lately. Here are some articles covering that hot topic.

House Passes Financial CHOICE Act, But Unclear if Senate Will Consider It

(6/21/2017)
The U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass HR 10, the Financial CHOICE Act, but it may not make it through the Senate.

Financial CHOICE Act Up for Vote Today

(6/8/2017)
A summary of the impact the Financial CHOICE Act could have.

Gov. Abbott Announces Special Session, Declares Items to Be Included

(6/8/2017)
The list of items Gov. Greg Abbott intends to pursue in the special session of the 85th legislature, starting July 18.

TLTA Emerges From Session Victorious, Our Safe and Stable System Preserved

(5/31/2017)
A summary of the 85th Session of the Texas Legislature and how it impacted the Texas title insurance industry.

Cyber Crime News: Who Hacked My Cyber Insurance Policy?

(5/31/2017)
ALTA recently published this important article about cyber-insurance coverage denials and lessons learned from them.

Texas Ranks in Bottom Eight for Claims – and That's a Good Thing

(5/22/2017)
The Texas title insurance system is one of the safest in the country for consumers, and here's data that proves it.

In the Home Stretch of the 85th Legislative Session

(5/17/2017)
What's going on in the last few weeks of the session, and what TLTA anticipates may happen.

Cyber Crime News: DocuSign Confirms Hack and Email Theft; WannaCry Ransomware; Google Docs

(5/17/2017)
A round-up of some of the biggest cyber crime and data breach stories that could affect your business.

First TLTA Affirmative Agenda Item on Governor's Desk – Clarifies Lis Pendens Expungement

(5/10/2017)
SB 1995, a bill clarifying the lis pendens expungement statute, is one of the first 90 bills to pass both chambers during the 85th legislative session.

Home Equity Constitutional Amendment Will Be on November Ballot

(5/10/2017)
With the support of several industry associations, SJR 60 -- a proposed constitutional amendment on home equity loans that would take effect Jan. 1, 2018 -- has been adopted by both the Texas House and Senate.

Bills Relating to TLTA's Affirmative Agenda Gain Momentum

(5/3/2017)
The bills relating to TLTA's affirmative agenda for the 85th legislative session have been moving through the House and Senate.

TLTA Sends Letter of Support for Hensarling CHOICE Act

(5/1/2017)
TLTA recently sent a letter to Financial Services Committee Chairman Jeb Hensarling (R-TX) expressing support for the Financial CHOICE Act.

TLTA Witness Lineup Testifies Against HB 4239, Bill Left Pending in Committee

(4/26/2017)
The hearing for HB 4239, a bill that proposes to upend our stable rate system, drew a large crowd, with 142 people signing in as witnesses, the vast majority of whom registered in opposition.

TLTA Member John F. Rothermel, III Testifies on Mechanic's Liens Bill HB 3065

(4/19/2017)
On Monday, April 17, TLTA member John F. Rothermel, III testified against HB 3065, a bill that relates to mechanic's and materialman's liens.

In Memory of TDI Commissioner David Mattax (1957 – 2017)

(4/19/2017)
TLTA is sad to report that TDI Commissioner David Mattax passed away last week after a battle with cancer.

TLTA Member Roland Love Testifies for Expungement of Lis Pendens in SB 1955; Bill Is Part of TLTA's

(4/12/2017)
TLTA member Roland Love testified on SB 1955, which would allow for expungement of lis pendens on a property and which is part of TLTA's affirmative agenda.

TLTA Adopts Positions on Several Bills, Creates Web Page for Tracking Bills Being Followed

(4/6/2017)
During a Board of Directors conference call on Monday, March 27, TLTA voted to adopt official positions on several bills.

Aaron Day Testifies on HB 1974; SB 1249 Passes Senate and Moves on to House

(4/6/2017)
Read a synopsis of Day's testimony on a power of attorney bill, and an update on a bill on adverse possession against co-tenents.

Register for Conference by May 15 to Save Big - and Reserve Your Hotel Room, Too!

(4/5/2017)
There's still time to save on your registration for the Annual Conference and Business Meeting.

ALTA Urges CFPB to Warn Consumers About Wire Fraud Schemes When Purchasing a Home

(4/4/2017)
A new wire fraud scheme is making the rounds; learn how to protect yourself and your customers.

TLTA Member Roland Love Testifies for Adverse Possession v. Co-Tenants Bill

(3/29/2017)
On Monday, March 27, TLTA member Roland Love testified on SB 1249, which would allow for adverse possession against co-tenants.

Texas Association of Realtors Includes Title Insurance in Their Legislative Priorities

(3/29/2017)
The Texas Association of Realtors has included title insurance in their list of priorities for the 85th session of the Texas Legislature.

Texas Legislature Is Busy - More Bills Filed This Session

(3/22/2017)
The deadline to file bills during the 85th Session of the Texas Legislature was Friday, March 10. Just how active was bill filing during this session?

Legislation on Lis Pendens Filed in Texas Legislature; Amicus Brief Filed by TLTA in Related Case

(3/15/2017)
TLTA was instrumental in getting two bills filed last week ??? SB 1955 and HB 4086 ??? which would clarify that title insurance companies could rely on an expungement of lis pendens when evaluating a transaction.

Two More Title Insurance Bills Filed on Friday Bill Filing Deadline - TLTA Analyzing Impact

(3/11/2017)
Friday was the deadline for bill filing at the Texas Legislature and, as we anticipated, there were additional bills filed dealing with the regulation of title insurance.

Dateline Austin Exclusive: Overview of the Texas Legislature

(1/10/2017)
The Texas Legislature begins its 85th session today, and this session has the potential to impact our industry more than ever before. TLTA has put together the following overview of the legislative process.

Bill to Drastically Alter Texas Title Insurance System Filed Tuesday by Senator Bob Hall

(12/22/2016)
As TLTA anticipated, a bill with the goal of dismantling our safe, stable title insurance system ??? S.B. 372 ??? has been filed by Senator Bob Hall. We also expect a similar bill to be filed in the House. Read the entire text of the bill.

TLTA Gains Two Major Supporters in Deregulation Fight

(12/7/2016)
TLTA is happy to announce that the board of the Texas Bankers Association voted last week to support TLTA in our efforts to maintain the current regulatory framework.

Ever Feel Like Nobody Understands Your Work or Why It Is Important?

(11/30/2016)
Title insurance is frequently misunderstood and does not get the respect it deserves. As those of us at TLTA advocate for you and your industry, we keep hearing the same comments from consumers.

Election Impact on Congress and Key Committees

(11/16/2016)
The election last week of Donald Trump as president, combined with Republican control of the House and Senate, will have a major impact on the land title industry. We think it will largely be positive, but significant change is ahead.

Recap on Texas Election Results: By the Numbers

(11/9/2016)
Yesterday's election saw a number of close races. TLTA has compiled a report on the Texas election results.