§7031 Principles Governing the Use of Electronic Signatures in International Transactions

Summary

Directs the Secretary of Commerce to promote the worldwide use and acceptance of electronic signatures. The Secretary must act in line with section 7001 and work to remove or reduce barriers to electronic-signature use so interstate and foreign commerce can grow. The Secretary must follow a few key ideas: use relevant parts of the 1996 U.N. Model Law on Electronic Commerce to cut paper-based barriers; let people pick the authentication technology and methods that fit their deal and make sure those choices will be recognized and enforced; allow parties to prove in court that their methods and transactions are valid; and treat methods from other countries fairly. The Secretary must consult users, providers, and other interested people. “Electronic record” and “electronic signature” mean what section 7006 says.