Dear Chairman Latz and Members of the Committee: 

Thank you for your continued leadership in ensuring that Minnesota remains at the forefront of modernizing its estate planning laws. The Legacy, Innovation & Virtual Estate Planning (LIVE) Coalition writes to express our strong support for SF 3602, the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act, which builds upon Minnesota’s 2024 enactment of the Uniform Electronic Wills Act and advances the state’s progress toward fully electronic, end-to-end estate planning. 

In today’s digital society, Minnesotans should be able to create and electronically execute common, non-testamentary estate planning documents—including trusts, advance health care directives, and powers of attorney. SF 3602 would make that possible by authorizing the secure electronic execution of these essential documents. 

The Uniform Law Commission adopted the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act (UEEPDA) in July 2022 to provide a clear, consistent legal framework for electronic estate planning documents. SF 3602 aligns with this national model, which has already been enacted in states including Illinois, Colorado, and Missouri. By adopting this approach, Minnesota would continue to lead in implementing thoughtful, technology-forward legal reforms. 

Allowing electronic execution of estate planning documents promotes access by simplifying the process of creating and signing them. Just as Minnesotans can designate beneficiaries through their financial institutions using online forms, they should be able to create and execute a power of attorney or advance directive electronically. Modernization reduces logistical barriers while maintaining appropriate safeguards. 

Unfortunately, many Minnesotans lack even basic incapacity planning documents, creating unnecessary hardship for families during times of crisis. Without tools such as a financial power of attorney, loved ones may be forced to pursue guardianship proceedings, thus placing additional strain on families, increasing costs, and burdening probate courts. Making these documents easier to create and execute will expand access to planning, reduce avoidable court involvement, and generate meaningful savings for both families and the judicial system.

We appreciate your leadership on this important issue and respectfully urge passage of SF 3602. The LIVE Coalition stands ready to serve as a resource as this legislation moves forward.