Minnesota Passes SAFE Act Legislation

On May 14, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty signed SF 2510, an omnibus bill including provisions to effect the requirements of the federal Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 (SAFE Act). The bill requires mortgage loan originators to (i) register with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), (ii) complete pre-license testing and education, (iii) submit to fingerprinting for the purpose of a criminal history background check, and (iv) pass a qualified written exam developed by the NMLS. The law becomes effective July 31, 2010. Unless a later date is approved by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the licensing requirement provisions will also become effective on July 31, 2010.