{ "topic": "licensing", "generatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "count": 25, "records": [ { "id": "dfpi-eac-001", "slug": "2024-12-17-agenda-01", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-12-17", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-17-24-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-17-24-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "78a521279a29d8f145342e36ad0a7875a520e22c74a4e9882726cdb5b2cab3c1", "textHash": "30cf8b24bf7f63f9c4e4f16974ff3ed564253c3e9f817599fbdc09f2cff44dcb", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "training", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "training", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, training, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "n GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 17, 2024, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 241 660 391 983 Passcode: EB6QhE Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,919360998# United States, Lincoln Phone conference ID: 919 360 998# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/10/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee Pa", "ome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/10/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 4. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 5. Escrow Management Training Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 8. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 9. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 10. Public Comments 11. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services", "iew and Approval of Minutes for 9/10/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 4. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 5. Escrow Management Training Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 8. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 9. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 10. Public Comments 11. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for", "Liang 3. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 4. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 5. Escrow Management Training Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 8. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 9. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 10. Public Comments 11. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days i", "iang 4. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 5. Escrow Management Training Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 8. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 9. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 10. Public Comments 11. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-002", "slug": "2024-12-17-meeting-minutes-02", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-12-17", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2024-12-17-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2024-12-17-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "d2e46c77bbdecafa03457d1effbde8e635f242851ed53d5eb15c5e525dbd0c4e", "textHash": "0bde8b14fc15bb3edb6be429adf3dcd6d4bfc23d2ebca978e0e3d7db2bb0919a", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "business email compromise", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "complaints", "education", "training", "real estate fraud", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "business email compromise", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "complaints", "education", "training", "real estate fraud", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching title, settlement funds, consumer protection, wire fraud, and business email compromise.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "der attempted to reverse a funding after recording had been scheduled, creating complications due to a lack of communication between the lender, escrow practitioner, and title company. Tu and Silberberg emphasized the need for clearer protocols to prevent such situations. Discussion followed on the importance of communication and defined responsibilities in transactions. Silberberg questioned the scope of management training, asking whether it should focus on daily operations. Davis noted that escrow licenses are business licenses and that statutory requirements, rather than best practices, sh", " a number of years, during which regulatory updates, technological advancements, and compliance challenges had emerged. The DFPI aims to revamp the training, focusing on trust account reconciliation, internal controls, regulatory reporting, and client fund management. He invited input on key compliance challenges from advisory members. PJ Garcia raised concerns about industry professionals complying with inappropriate requests from lenders and brokers. Tu highlighted issues with escrow officers being asked to perform tasks beyond their role. The discussion centered on defining responsibilities", "larly representation from Northern California and specialty escrow sectors. They noted remote participation makes regional representation more feasible. Liang added that consumer advocacy representation could provide valuable perspectives. Tu encouraged broader participation, noting that even non-committee members could contribute meaningfully. Silberberg echoed this, urging outreach to fill vacancies. Watrous observed that online attendance remained high, reflecting strong interest in participation. 4. DFPI Updates Liang provides updates about the launch of the newly redesigned DFPI website o", " to perform tasks beyond their role. The discussion centered on defining responsibilities and minimizing unnecessary compliance burdens. Silberberg raised concerns about wire handling and operational processes. PJ Garcia noted inconsistencies in company policies and suggested clearer guidance, citing commission disbursements as an example. She also shared an instance where a lender attempted to reverse a funding after recording had been scheduled, creating complications due to a lack of communication between the lender, escrow practitioner, and title company. Tu and Silberberg emphasized the n", "hip to an external conservator to oversee the final stages of refund issuance and the winding down of operations. Suzuki also raised concerns about the growing threat of cyber theft. He highlighted the ongoing risk of business email compromise schemes, where cybercriminals manipulate email Page 11 of 13 communications to deceive escrow agents into misdirecting funds. He urged the industry to stay vigilant and continually educate staff on cybersecurity best practices. Suzuki shared several recent fraud schemes to underscore the importance of stringent security measures: Foreign Bank Check Scam " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-003", "slug": "2024-09-10-agenda-03", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-09-10", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/09/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-10-24-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/09/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-10-24-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "1489d9f5408ff04b1b06f21faf56f886d010280a7210d75ff0eb2fda37b1648f", "textHash": "e6ee8f8281ed317950757528e672f8953d1ef2b3ec5470954e876884e3ba743a", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, NMLS, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ " GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING September 10, 2024, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 290 571 885 375 Passcode: jgLFNw Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,336054974# United States, Lincoln (916) 409-6163,,336054974# United States (Toll-free) Phone conference ID: 336 054 974# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes fo", "States (Toll-free) Phone conference ID: 336 054 974# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 7/29/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow License Paul Liang 5. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 6. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 7. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language ", "erence ID: 336 054 974# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 7/29/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow License Paul Liang 5. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 6. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 7. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are ava", " Approval of Minutes for 7/29/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow License Paul Liang 5. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 6. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 7. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in", "eeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow License Paul Liang 5. Advisory Committee Paul Liang 6. Escrow Kickbacks Paul Liang 7. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-004", "slug": "2024-07-29-meeting-minutes-04", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-07-29", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/09/2024-7-29-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/09/2024-7-29-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "166c4805e2f54e451a51b55d071073b65d9a00932ecc3bf7de091b120dd90f40", "textHash": "b7559dcfb3ca9e1f3a923175ce167f398dbf398d6a67284fcd53033ea324de5c", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "automation", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "automation", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching automation, education, NMLS, licensing, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ted that the industry could collaborate with DFPI during the development process to design various forms and reports. Liang mentioned that some review processes could be automated, allowing the system to verify data accuracy and send notifications. He also noted that NMLS includes an electronic surety bond feature, which has been used by other DFPI programs. Larry Black expressed his support for transitioning to NMLS, noting that the system could eventually support individual licenses. Heidi Cassel emphasized the importance of keeping licensees’ records segregated, ensuring that each company’s", "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING July 29, 2024 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Teams Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Greg Young, Senior Deputy Commissioner Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Milad Farag, Special Administrator – Regulatory Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Affi Eghbaldari, Senior Counsel Committee Members: Barry Sender, Granite Escrow & Settlem", "and reposted on the DFPI’s website. Silberberg made a motion to approve the minutes, and Barry Sender seconded the motion. The minutes were then approved. Page 1 of 4 3. NMLS Sheila mentioned several advisory members brought up NMLS during the previous meeting. She proposed providing an overview of the system and seeking feedback on whether the escrow industry could benefit from its use. NMLS is the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System, a system of record for depository institutions, their subsidiaries, mortgage loan originators, mortgage bankers, and other financial service providers for li", "sioner Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Milad Farag, Special Administrator – Regulatory Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Affi Eghbaldari, Senior Counsel Committee Members: Barry Sender, Granite Escrow & Settlement Services / Other Business Ownership Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business Specialization Larry Black via phone, Diamond Country Escrow, Inc. / Small Business Matthew Davis, Esq., Davis & Davis Law Group, APC Nancy Silberberg, Altus Escrow, Inc./Past Chairpers", "erral fee cases are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis. When a DFPI examiner finds sufficient evidence of kickbacks or referral fees, the matter is referred to DFPI Enforcement for appropriate action. Most advisory members felt that the current referral fee provision in the escrow law does not need amendment for clarification on prohibited compensations. They requested DFPI to issue a guidance memorandum on referral fee practices and to remind licensees of the consequences of violating this provision. Liang stated that DFPI would consider this request. 5. Remote Work Liang provided a summ" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-005", "slug": "2024-07-29-agenda-05", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-07-29", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/07/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-7-29-24-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/07/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-7-29-24-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "d85ee29e74982a7bdb93461ccf92df5f6ce856f3bbf4fd2ab53bdd4aa36c52ca", "textHash": "ca01f5af727c5a78417f42ac7374f1c2c2f6428bc6d6302bcec76c02a4a6b52f", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "remote work" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, NMLS, licensing, and remote work.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "tion GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING July 29, 2024, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 229 582 068 87 Passcode: xaH5tv Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,327800243# United States, Sacramento Phone conference ID: 941 647 552# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/18/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver ", "States, Sacramento Phone conference ID: 941 647 552# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/18/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Referral fee violations Paul Liang 5. Remote Work Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation servic", "ul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/18/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Referral fee violations Paul Liang 5. Remote Work Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Paul Liang i", "1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/18/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. NMLS Sheila Oliver 4. Referral fee violations Paul Liang 5. Remote Work Paul Liang 6. Escrow License Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests s" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-006", "slug": "2024-06-18-meeting-minutes-06", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-06-18", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/07/2024-6-18-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/07/2024-6-18-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "8ecdfccf666924fdb4b6a60aa77c8cce2061dbd92a32838e9da42284d0f2c7a9", "textHash": "7d7d47b8feaed42853ecf84361dee044325f4edbc67b4e61f5c998773d2b3c1e", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "business email compromise", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "payoff demand", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "complaints", "education", "training", "real estate fraud", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "business email compromise", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "payoff demand", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "complaints", "education", "training", "real estate fraud", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching title, settlement funds, consumer protection, wire fraud, and business email compromise.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ " Silberberg questioned whether both escrow companies and employees need to be licensed as professionals for it to work. Additionally, escrow employees in real estate and title-controlled companies need to meet the same standards as those in independent escrow companies if exemptions are not removed. Controlled escrow operations are compartmentalized. Silberberg agreed with Davis on removing broker exemptions. Felde stated that he is in favor of a professional license for the settlement agent industry because escrow agents operate as professionals. A professional license leads to education, whi", "DFPI’s website. During the review of Fountain Valley Escrow’s annual audited report, a DFPI examiner noted a particular reconciliation item which identified a fraudulent wire out due to a wire hacking incident. A special exam was assigned to investigate the issue further. The licensee explained that their business was hacked and they basically fell victim to a phishing scheme which led to the unauthorized wires that were sent out from their trust account. The licensee claimed that the bad actor gained access to their business operation system, including phone and email. The special exam disclo", " effectively regulate the industry. Due to extremely limited resources, the escrow program’s exam team could only focus on priority examinations and cases causing direct consumer harm such as embezzlement and misappropriation of trust funds, etc. Cutting expenses did not appear to be an effective way of eliminating the deficit. So the DFPI needs to work with the industry to solve the deficit on the revenue side. This means reevaluating some of the fees and assessments that have not changed for decades or identifying new revenue sources. Greg Young shared with the committee in the last meeting ", "ails. Some policies only cover the cost of having someone investigate the Page 4 of 10 cyber incident but not the loss of trust funds. Davis commented that payoff demand fraud was also on the uptick, similar to cyber-attacks which target settlement agents. Liang informed the advisory members that the DFPI legal division is reviewing the recommendations from advisory members regarding rulemaking on audit procedures. The DFPI is also reviewing the lender vetting issue. Liang will share updates when they are available. 6. Examination Issues Suzuki stated that the exam staff have moved from conduc", "ners are working diligently to investigate and finalize their results for these possible conservatorship cases. Page 6 of 10 Two of those three cases appear to be due to cyber theft, and the other appears to be a misappropriation of funds by the owner. Nothing else could be shared publicly on these ongoing investigations. Suzuki will provide more when these investigations are completed, and appropriate actions are taken. Liang added that the examiner’s hours incurred handling in-house conservatorships are not billable to any companies, and the DFPI cannot recover the costs from doing in-house " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-007", "slug": "2024-06-18-agenda-07", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-06-18", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/06/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-18-24-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/06/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-18-24-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "756bbbc69756680684202bc2ee851baa04bf3538076910e920a79a887f0eb3b6", "textHash": "37b7027449051e6df479fe2d9133549138afbddc79c8f6bdfca649f7bd33c023", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ation GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING June 18, 2024, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 226 598 621 607 Passcode: BhfmDh Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,327800243# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 327 800 243# AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/12/24 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee", "Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 7. Conservatorships Gary Suzuki 8. Impact of NAR class-action settlement regarding broker commission Larry Black 9. Conversion of Business License to Professional License Paul Liang 10. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 11. Public Comments 12. Closing Remarks Paul Liang 320 West 4th Street, Suite 750, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (866) 275-2677 www.dfpi.ca.gov In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter serv", "get Paul Liang 5. DFPI Updates Paul Liang - Commissioner’s Releases Ad Hoc Committee recommendations on CPA audit procedures Evaluation of Third-Party Risk Management 6. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 7. Conservatorships Gary Suzuki 8. Impact of NAR class-action settlement regarding broker commission Larry Black 9. Conversion of Business License to Professional License Paul Liang 10. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 11. Public Comments 12. Closing Remarks Paul Liang 320 West 4th Street, Suite 750, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (866) 275-2677 www.dfpi.ca.gov In limited occurrences or", "l Liang - Commissioner’s Releases Ad Hoc Committee recommendations on CPA audit procedures Evaluation of Third-Party Risk Management 6. Examination Issues Gary Suzuki 7. Conservatorships Gary Suzuki 8. Impact of NAR class-action settlement regarding broker commission Larry Black 9. Conversion of Business License to Professional License Paul Liang 10. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 11. Public Comments 12. Closing Remarks Paul Liang 320 West 4th Street, Suite 750, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (866) 275-2677 www.dfpi.ca.gov In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-008", "slug": "2024-03-12-agenda-08", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-03-12", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/03/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-12-24-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/03/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-12-24-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "9fbf7a7ab873139a1e098b82d2798c5d5b44c2af6d85d5f494b3152319cde781", "textHash": "e00e50d52e381dea26ddc2c56dc0b98b14567eeae25cefa7a8b2411fdd9472f6", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "cybersecurity", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "cybersecurity", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching cybersecurity, education, licensing, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 12/5/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates - Paul Liang/Greg Young DFPI office hours Budgetary issues 4. Cyber incident survey results Paul Liang 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Vetting of settlement agents Juliana Tu 7. Business continuity and succession planning Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommod", "ion GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING March 12, 2024, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 245 248 173 037 Passcode: wRcG8b Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,663687865# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 663 687 865# AGENDA 1. Welcome new advisory members, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 12/5/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. ", "mittee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Vetting of settlement agents Juliana Tu 7. Business continuity and succession planning Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pa", "Paul Liang 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Vetting of settlement agents Juliana Tu 7. Business continuity and succession planning Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-009", "slug": "2024-03-12-meeting-minutes-09", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2024-03-12", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/06/2024-3-12-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2024/06/2024-3-12-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "e36e5e7f59d0dee2ddb1c9cb55fa97a43e6cccee5d1fe746e17911d314a54452", "textHash": "54c4c0e31d92a21091870cf2001eae266eb65886dd12d4e6b149de95d2ed5916", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "payoff demand", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "education", "training", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "payoff demand", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "title insurance", "education", "training", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching title, settlement funds, consumer protection, payoff demand, and trust account.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "sactions could not be delayed. Those licensees suffered a loss in revenue. Other licensees reported delayed payoffs for transactions which First American was used as the title company. As a result of the delay, customers asked for interest on funds due to them. One licensee reported their cyber insurance provider had notified them after the cyber incident that their cyber insurance policy would not be renewed due to recent cyber incidents in the mortgage, title and settlement industries. Liang reminded licensees to be vigilant. Licensees may refer to Commissioner’s November 30, 2018 release nu", "fected their escrow closing and they had anywhere between 1 and 75 escrow transactions being affected. 2 licensees reported the cyber incident caused a shortage in their trust account and that the shortage had been cured prior to the date of the survey 199 licensees reported they had a cyber insurance policy. Licensees who installing accounting system in their local server were not affected by the cyber incident. Licensees who used the cloud version of the system experienced service interruptions in their business. Some licensees’ transactions were cancelled by their customers because the cust", "h those actions. The acts of those licensees hindered the DFPI’s ability to collaborate effectively with the industry on matters related to the safety of trust funds and consumer protection. 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Garcia gave a brief update for the status on Ad Hoc committee’s review of CPA auditing procedures. The Ad Hoc committee has finished its work, and it is currently with Felde and Silberberg. Felde stated the Ad Hoc committee focused on defining various terms and reports. 6. Vetting of settlement agents Page 3 of 5 Juliana Tu provided a brief summary of lender vett", " were cancelled by their customers because the customers’ transactions could not be delayed. Those licensees suffered a loss in revenue. Other licensees reported delayed payoffs for transactions which First American was used as the title company. As a result of the delay, customers asked for interest on funds due to them. One licensee reported their cyber insurance provider had notified them after the cyber incident that their cyber insurance policy would not be renewed due to recent cyber incidents in the mortgage, title and settlement industries. Liang reminded licensees to be vigilant. Lice", "fected their escrow closing and they had anywhere between 1 and 75 escrow transactions being affected. 2 licensees reported the cyber incident caused a shortage in their trust account and that the shortage had been cured prior to the date of the survey 199 licensees reported they had a cyber insurance policy. Licensees who installing accounting system in their local server were not affected by the cyber incident. Licensees who used the cloud version of the system experienced service interruptions in their business. Some licensees’ transactions were cancelled by their customers because the cust" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-010", "slug": "2023-12-05-agenda-10", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-12-05", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/11/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-5-2023-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/11/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-5-2023-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "14709586b298614136a61c74a982afca62406fa485a32e58bbafae982cb57a4b", "textHash": "ceab921879b7968fc02d30b1fa96b796d1825b5fc63215706759866bcdf57e35", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "n GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 5, 2023, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 281 311 056 860 Passcode: FHAbJ2 Or Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,797003235# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 797 003 235# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/12/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul ", "9/12/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Examination issues Gary Suzuki 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pau", " Conference ID: 797 003 235# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/12/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Examination issues Gary Suzuki 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for", "Approval of Minutes for 9/12/23 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Examination issues Gary Suzuki 5. Ad Hoc Committee Reports (Annual Report) Paul Liang 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests s" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-011", "slug": "2023-12-05-meeting-minutes-11", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-12-05", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2023-12-5-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2023-12-5-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "fa188df117b8672d930fee469eecbf267f1cb83ffce2c85c935d3aca7d0b83a1", "textHash": "5546ea03f15111c88c9087d0b2028cfbac6de71532d481155197908d373baf60", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 5, 2023 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Team Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Milad Farag, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairp", "of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Milad Farag, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Jason Watrous, Freedom Escrow / Chairperson EAFC ** Laura Padilla, Escrow Consultants-Century City / Vice Chairperson EAFC ** Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business", "illa of Escrow Consultants-Century City as representatives of EAFC on the advisory committee. Liang also Page 1 of 3 introduced Milad Farag as the new escrow law program examination manager. Milad Farag and Gary Suzuki will manage the examination function of the escrow law program. Liang stated the four vacant advisory positions were expected to be filled by commissioner’s appointee soon. Those four positions are an attorney with escrow agent clients, representative for medium-sized companies, representative for company with other business ownership, and a representative for business with a sp", "e the meeting was running out of time. 5. Ad Hoc Committee progress Garcia gave a brief update for the status on Ad Hoc committee’s review of CPA auditing procedures. 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Liang briefly went over enforcement cases in the current quarter and licensing statistics. It appears the number of licensed companies and licensed locations continued to increase comparing to the same period in the prior year. The industry grew in a slow pace. 7. Public comments A member of the public asked if the escrow program will license crypto escrow service providers after the pa" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-012", "slug": "2023-09-12-agenda-12", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-09-12", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-12-2023-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-12-2023-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "d505ed53b24009644b24c42f14aa1e11d7ce9165a39fab12658be0ad75dfe154", "textHash": "125cf2fd6b4ecf89946e3492ea25dabc25c36c4310bdf493e2cc49c9f94598bc", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING September 12, 2023, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor video conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 230 274 033 109 Passcode: nBUVLb Or Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,614445245# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 614 445 245# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Current DFPI Budge", "eting Paul Liang 3. Current DFPI Budget Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 5. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pau", "f Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Current DFPI Budget Sheila Oliver 4. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 5. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 6. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 7. Public Comments 8. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests s" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-013", "slug": "2023-09-12-meeting-minutes-13", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-09-12", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2023-9-12-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2023-9-12-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "fcbfca72982898d601c747ad36b5dfea674d85776fcd005bad9b99a2723eee76", "textHash": "951c1a86c6597a98c7798738c32adf5cf4d68cd50e61bbef190e702cdc699b9e", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching settlement funds, consumer protection, education, licensing, and examinations.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "l continue to conduct examinations on a risk-based Page 1 of 3 model. The primary objective of escrow examination should be conducting risk-based examinations to protect consumer funds, not generating examination fees. Garcia commented that escrow program’s budget lacks transparency. Liang responded that Garcia or any member of the public may submit a public record act request to obtain a copy of escrow program’s revenue and expenditures report from DFPI’s budget office. If anyone has questions about any items in the report, DFPI budget may provide clarifications upon request. Garcia stated EI", "l continue to conduct examinations on a risk-based Page 1 of 3 model. The primary objective of escrow examination should be conducting risk-based examinations to protect consumer funds, not generating examination fees. Garcia commented that escrow program’s budget lacks transparency. Liang responded that Garcia or any member of the public may submit a public record act request to obtain a copy of escrow program’s revenue and expenditures report from DFPI’s budget office. If anyone has questions about any items in the report, DFPI budget may provide clarifications upon request. Garcia stated EI", "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING September 12, 2023 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 300 S. Spring St., 15th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Team Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Committee Members: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. / Attorney Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson", "ed by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Sultanna Wan, Special Administrator - Licensing Committee Members: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. / Attorney Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Jennifer Woodard, Oak Escrow Inc. / Vice Chairperson EAFC ** Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business Specialization Larry Black via phone, Diamond Country Escrow, Inc. / Small Business Patricia J. (P.J.) Garcia, Beach ", "throughout the years. Licensees are still paying an assessment rate from 13 years ago. The escrow program cannot continue to effectively operate when the assessments and examination billings cannot sustain the operation. Although the program may conduct examinations in shorter exam cycle to generate more examination billings, program will continue to conduct examinations on a risk-based Page 1 of 3 model. The primary objective of escrow examination should be conducting risk-based examinations to protect consumer funds, not generating examination fees. Garcia commented that escrow program’s bud" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-014", "slug": "2023-06-13-agenda-14", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-06-13", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/06/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-13-2023-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/06/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-13-2023-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "2e75a0d1e0d51fbd5f8c6e4d09299656dcc659995f893c47a74c251e26a60a85", "textHash": "0649ede5287b34d9dc1665aad5962b566bd940298c31be6e18e76c4e5056d2c3", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "good funds", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "good funds", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching settlement funds, good funds, education, licensing, and examinations.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "728 984 421# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Q&A from 2023 EIC Conference Paul Liang 4. Insured Cash Sweep Program Paul Liang 5. Examination Updates and scams Gary Suzuki 6. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 7. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled perso", "728 984 421# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Q&A from 2023 EIC Conference Paul Liang 4. Insured Cash Sweep Program Paul Liang 5. Examination Updates and scams Gary Suzuki 6. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 7. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled perso", "nnovation GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING June 13, 2023, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 320 West 4th Street, 7th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 269 368 101 039 Passcode: eKavE6 Or Call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,728984421# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 728 984 421# AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Q&A from 2023 EIC Con", "ul Liang 5. Examination Updates and scams Gary Suzuki 6. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 7. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pa", "emarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/14/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Q&A from 2023 EIC Conference Paul Liang 4. Insured Cash Sweep Program Paul Liang 5. Examination Updates and scams Gary Suzuki 6. Escrow Advisory Committee openings Paul Liang 7. Ad Hoc Committee progress Paul Liang 8. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 9. Public Comments 10. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter ser" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-015", "slug": "2023-06-13-meeting-minutes-15", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-06-13", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2023-6-13-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2023-6-13-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "ab916f6e5a004f39a0e7b53a0e4d05f2cc167c45c056daac9b55302917536120", "textHash": "6afe05cdafd0869f56c514ab54438e702d7a5391c301ea5fb111eb66d940bb15", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "trust account", "good funds", "title insurance", "education", "real estate fraud", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "title", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "wire fraud", "escrow instructions", "wire instructions", "seller proceeds", "buyer funding", "trust account", "good funds", "title insurance", "education", "real estate fraud", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching title, settlement funds, consumer protection, wire fraud, and escrow instructions.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "struction under the escrow regulation. Garcia commented that the problem to say no to CDA is to give a competitive advantage to DRE broker-controlled escrow companies or title-controlled escrow companies that will say yes. Liang stated the Department observed in recent years real estate brokers used escrow agents as Page 3 of 6 bookkeeper to manage their earned commissions and use those funds to pay their personal and business expenses such as to pay referral fees to a different broker, paying college tuitions, personal credit card payment, car payment, child support, alimony, etc. Liang remin", "Licensees Page 2 of 6 should also be aware it may be outside of the scope of escrow to provide bookkeeping and bill payment services to the seller for their funds in the trust account. Larry Black questioned if a licensee holds rent or security deposit post-closing, would the funds being held be considered a holding escrow. Liang stated whether any remaining funds in the escrow would be considered as turning into holding escrow requires a review on a case-by-case basis. Typically, post-closing funds being held for repair, termite works, etc. are not considered as holding escrow. If the license", " to submit an annual audit report. It is not uncommon to see a licensee rescind their request to surrender a license. Garcia questioned how such requirement will benefit consumer if a licensee does not have the funds to meet its financial requirements or to engage a CPA to do an annual audit. Liang stated maintaining financial requirements and submitting an annual audit mitigate risks to consumer funds. Those requirements may be waived under some circumstances such as when the Department is placing the company under conservatorship or receivership. In those cases, an annual audit report may no", "ion where the sellers were a traveling couple. The licensee communicated with the sellers verbally and electronically. The licensee had the seller’s signed and notarized wire instructions. The transaction was recorded, and proceeds were wired. The licensee also mailed the final closing statement to the sellers. The wire was rejected by the receiving bank because the beneficiaries on the wire were different from the name of the account holder. The vacant landowner received the final closing statement and contacted the licensee that they had no knowledge of this sale. It appears a fraudster impe", "he proceeds. Cassel suggested licensees remain neutral and ask the seller(s) to get legal advice as there may be tax consequences. Liang stated if a licensee follows the instructions from the principals to disburse proceeds to seller(s) of the transaction, there is no apparent escrow violation. Licensees are encouraged to disburse proceeds promptly to avoid proceeds being turned into a holding escrow. Licensees Page 2 of 6 should also be aware it may be outside of the scope of escrow to provide bookkeeping and bill payment services to the seller for their funds in the trust account. Larry Blac" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-016", "slug": "2023-03-14-agenda-16", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-03-14", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/03/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-14-2023-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/03/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-14-2023-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "a8e4d0911ab6c7717623c20c2dc8a671b5d64a510d74e0e061a47e7bf53817e4", "textHash": "90e7fb086e9a034921a14f4341b0e41f065f430b90c0a70cc89db948ca5234b0", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "novation GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING March 14, 2023, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 320 West 4th Street, 7th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 * Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 262 033 233 830 Passcode: 4kYSZS Download Teams | Join on the web Or Or call in (audio only) +1 916-409-6163,,358286241# United States, Sacramento Phone Conference ID: 358 286 241# Find a local number | Reset PIN AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Appro", "estructure Paul Liang 4. Escrow Crypto Exposure Survey Paul Liang 5. Field examinations Gary Suzuki 6. Ad Hoc Committee progress Sheila Oliver 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be dir", "iang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 12/20/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Escrow Program restructure Paul Liang 4. Escrow Crypto Exposure Survey Paul Liang 5. Field examinations Gary Suzuki 6. Ad Hoc Committee progress Sheila Oliver 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for speci", "3. DFPI Escrow Program restructure Paul Liang 4. Escrow Crypto Exposure Survey Paul Liang 5. Field examinations Gary Suzuki 6. Ad Hoc Committee progress Sheila Oliver 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-017", "slug": "2023-03-14-meeting-minutes-17", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2023-03-14", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/06/2023-3-14-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/06/2023-3-14-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "35d659494a28126c56b9b08acf49242a2522f0f85a2b3aa7b5d327f88d385346", "textHash": "ad6c040080eac045e7e7696203447f8ae568b4bb4652937fbcc71bc04672a401", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "trust account", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "trust account", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching settlement funds, trust account, education, licensing, and examinations.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ount. In addition to sharing the crypto survey results, Liang also surveyed advisory members whether any industry representatives were aware of escrow companies having a trust account opened with Silicon Valley Bank. Industry representatives were not aware of any escrow companies affected by the bank run at Silicon Valley Bank. Advisory members and members of the public discussed FDIC insurance limit and how the escrow industry worked with the FDIC in the 90s after FDIC took Guardian Bank under receivership. 5. Field Examinations Suzuki informed the advisory members that the escrow law program", "ount. In addition to sharing the crypto survey results, Liang also surveyed advisory members whether any industry representatives were aware of escrow companies having a trust account opened with Silicon Valley Bank. Industry representatives were not aware of any escrow companies affected by the bank run at Silicon Valley Bank. Advisory members and members of the public discussed FDIC insurance limit and how the escrow industry worked with the FDIC in the 90s after FDIC took Guardian Bank under receivership. 5. Field Examinations Suzuki informed the advisory members that the escrow law program", "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING March 14, 2023 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 320 West 4th Street, 7th floor conference room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Team Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Portfolio Manager Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. /", "or organizational alignment to provide regulatory support and supervision to the industry. In the past, the escrow program had only one special administrator who managed licensing, examination, and administrative functions. As both the industry and the program grew during the past ten years, the program divided up the above three functions to have one licensing special administrator to manage both licensing and administrative functions, and one regulatory special administrator to manage the exam functions. The DFPI will divide up the duties and responsibilities for the licensing special admini", "tional alignment to provide regulatory support and supervision to the industry. In the past, the escrow program had only one special administrator who managed licensing, examination, and administrative functions. As both the industry and the program grew during the past ten years, the program divided up the above three functions to have one licensing special administrator to manage both licensing and administrative functions, and one regulatory special administrator to manage the exam functions. The DFPI will divide up the duties and responsibilities for the licensing special administrator and" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-018", "slug": "2022-12-20-agenda-18", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-12-20", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/12/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-20-22-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/12/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-12-20-22-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "d250e774d02d088a9bf7992e510cb361fb10d4245aa01888a69d7538cd54baf9", "textHash": "3defdf0636e69b07ec1ad92506c4b6678983e1013bcab5efe94926286bde2429", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "VERNOR Gavin Newsom · COMMISSIONER Clothilde V. Hewlett ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 20, 2022, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Video Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 * Or Join on your computer or mobile device https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting Meeting ID: 286 968 469 815 Passcode: iRimAz Download Teams | Join on the web AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Advisory Committee – vacancy, agenda, etc. Paul Liang 5. Enforcem", "d Approval of Minutes for 9/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Advisory Committee – vacancy, agenda, etc. Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Comments 7. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be di", " Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 9/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Advisory Committee – vacancy, agenda, etc. Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Comments 7. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meetin" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-019", "slug": "2022-12-20-meeting-minutes-19", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-12-20", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/03/2022-12-20-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2023/03/2022-12-20-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "e2f9c4e903510ad6cbd568e6f8566025d817a76090e850c33e2c8ed58aa55c3b", "textHash": "cc0c475979c15b1a725a54c66a7a479dbe235c1c53cfa252ba3a1070a7b1fc9b", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, enforcement, escrow accounting software, and remote work.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING December 20, 2022 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Team Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Jennifer Woodard, Oak Escrow Inc. / Vice Chairperson – EAFC Juliana Tu, Viva Esc", " CA 90013 Or via. Microsoft Team Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Jennifer Woodard, Oak Escrow Inc. / Vice Chairperson – EAFC Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business Specialization Larry Black via phone, Diamond Country Escrow, Inc. / Small Business Patricia J. (P.J.) Garcia, Beach Pacific Escrow, Inc./Chairperson EIC * * Escrow Institute of ", "he advisory meeting is only two hours, program would prioritize agenda items to fit those most important and relevant to pressing matters into the two-hour timeframe. 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update There is no update about enforcement actions taken since the last advisory meeting. Liang provided a brief licensing stats update. The number of licensed companies and the number of licensed locations is both increased from a year ago. The licensing trend still shows a trend of increasing. This trend is consistent during the four quarters of 2022. Larry Black asked if the DFPI has seen ", "sees. There were only about 40 companies responded to the survey. The ad hoc team will try to extend the survey for more participants to reply. The ad hoc team invited a software vendor to the team’s meeting to talk about how companies can protect themselves while working remotely. The ad hoc team meets biweekly. Page 1 of 3 PJ Garcia provided an update for the ad hoc team for audit regulation. The ad hoc team is working to identify provisions in the law that are not applicable or enforceable by the DFPI. Garcia gave an example about adding machine. The requirement to use an adding machine tap", "es. Juliana Tu seconded the motion. The minutes was approved. 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver stated two Ad Hoc advisory teams were established in November to research remote work and audit regulation issues. The ad hoc teams will research subject matters and report back to the advisory group to assist DFPI understand these matters and how they impact the industry. Tu provided an update about the ad hoc team for remote work. Tu stated a survey was done to escrow licensees. There were only about 40 companies responded to the survey. The ad hoc team will try to extend the survey for more parti" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-020", "slug": "2022-09-07-agenda-20", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-09-07", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/08/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-7-22-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/08/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-9-7-22-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "66fb4cc6ff57d2459e1261a1e3ad72aa40a5d31b1674082aaf57e0c53ba55fc8", "textHash": "f31d844e2a4304050946be2bb4281f191915afb10a549f66709513be3adafb4b", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, examinations, and enforcement.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ " ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING September 7, 2022, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Call-In Number: (866) 709-4440 Participant Code: 7675-977 2101 Arena Blvd., Room 110A/B Video Conference Room, Sacramento, CA 95834 * 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Video Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 * AGENDA 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks, and Introductions Commissioner Hewlett 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Licensing and Examination modernization Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Commen", " 1. Welcome, Opening Remarks, and Introductions Commissioner Hewlett 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Licensing and Examination modernization Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Comments 7. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation", "pening Remarks, and Introductions Commissioner Hewlett 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Licensing and Examination modernization Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Comments 7. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at l", "sioner Hewlett 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 6/7/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Ad Hoc Committee Sheila Oliver 4. Licensing and Examination modernization Paul Liang 5. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Gary Suzuki/Paul Liang 6. Public Comments 7. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meetin" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-021", "slug": "2022-09-07-meeting-minutes-21", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-09-07", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/12/2022-9-7-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/12/2022-9-7-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "19cca24819d5f2ee9cd77f0cf9a01b556e31927ce3d8e0dd1616cf5c396977b3", "textHash": "77dbd987f48dc0ae93215c11ce436bdcdb0a0673b2f83ff183e350601a2060c3", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "consumer protection", "complaints", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "consumer protection", "complaints", "education", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching consumer protection, complaints, education, NMLS, and licensing.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "oining the DFPI. Advisory members also introduced themselves to the Commissioner. Commissioner Hewlett briefly shared her vision for the DFPI which primarily focusing on consumer protection; encourage safe, responsible, and innovative growth of financial marketplace; help to stimulate the economy and encourage responsible innovation and smart enforcement; and make the DFPI a national model for consumer protection and responsible innovation. Commissioner Hewlett also shared some of the goals derived from her vision as follows: - Implementation of the California Consumer Financial Protection Law", " derived from her vision as follows: - Implementation of the California Consumer Financial Protection Law, specifically, providing guidance to companies on responding to complaints, strengthening the DFPI’s engagement with innovators through the Office of Financial Technology Innovation, and establishing registration procedures Page 1 of 3 - Implementation of the Governor’s Executive Order to create policies that strengthen consumer protection while promoting responsible innovation on Crypto Assets that are equitable, inclusive, and consider environmental impact - Enabling generational wealth-", "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING September 7, 2022 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 2101 Arena Blvd., Room 110A/B Video Conference Room, Sacramento, CA 95834 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (866) 709-4440; participant code 7675-977 Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Clothilde Hewlett, Commissioner Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. ", "ition to sharing her vision for the DFPI, Commissioner Hewlett also shared her vision for the Escrow Law program as follows: - Transition the escrow law program onto the Nationwide Multi-state Licensing System (NMLS) to bring efficiencies to escrow licensure and examination - Resolve escrow law program’s operational deficiencies to ensure the program has the resources to provide adequate regulatory support for both consumers and the industry - Modernizing the escrow law. The DFPI’s legal division will work closely with the Escrow Law program to identify areas in the statute and regulations whi", " Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Clothilde Hewlett, Commissioner Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Committee Members: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. / Attorney Bradley Cohen, Granite Escrow & Settlement Services / Other Business Ownership Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Juliana Tu via phone, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business Specialization Larry Black via phone, Dia" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-022", "slug": "2022-06-07-agenda-22", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-06-07", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/05/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-7-22-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/05/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-6-7-22-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "359ac2bba397fe13bc2bd71981a57f63de2ce24347107f8e635ac2fd4358c93d", "textHash": "8c4f99e06d2370c21fd97c57ad5db74e20771e19676275f7c45fcbad09194fca", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "education", "licensing", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching education, licensing, enforcement, escrow accounting software, and remote work.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "tt ESCROW LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING June 7, 2022, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Call-In Number: (866) 709-4440 Participant Code: 7675-977 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Video Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 * AGENDA 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/8/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee Updates and Upcoming Openings Paul Liang 4. Update for Rulemaking (PRO 13/13) and Remote Work Guidance Summer Volkmer 5. Cryptocurrencies Paul Liang 6. Escrow Accounting Software Gary Suzuki 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 8. Publi", "te for Rulemaking (PRO 13/13) and Remote Work Guidance Summer Volkmer 5. Cryptocurrencies Paul Liang 6. Escrow Accounting Software Gary Suzuki 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pa", "nings Paul Liang 4. Update for Rulemaking (PRO 13/13) and Remote Work Guidance Summer Volkmer 5. Cryptocurrencies Paul Liang 6. Escrow Accounting Software Gary Suzuki 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests ", "dvisory Committee Updates and Upcoming Openings Paul Liang 4. Update for Rulemaking (PRO 13/13) and Remote Work Guidance Summer Volkmer 5. Cryptocurrencies Paul Liang 6. Escrow Accounting Software Gary Suzuki 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven", "g 2. Review and Approval of Minutes for 3/8/22 meeting Paul Liang 3. Advisory Committee Updates and Upcoming Openings Paul Liang 4. Update for Rulemaking (PRO 13/13) and Remote Work Guidance Summer Volkmer 5. Cryptocurrencies Paul Liang 6. Escrow Accounting Software Gary Suzuki 7. Enforcement Actions and Licensing Update Paul Liang 8. Public Comments 9. Closing Remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. " ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-023", "slug": "2022-06-07-meeting-minutes-23", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-06-07", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/08/2022-6-7-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/08/2022-6-7-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "bf498c187eec6efdb129e85bdc8fcdca43a9e7af84646c67790cc1d99eb27bda", "textHash": "772fa5bad1a955344ecb3250601ef472c84ff5377f937ffd999db434a232f5ca", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "title", "education", "training", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "title", "education", "training", "NMLS", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "escrow accounting software", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching title, education, training, NMLS, and licensing.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "ve for small business, a CPA who has escrow agent clients, and a representative for companies with other ownership. Other ownership may include escrow companies owned by title companies or real estate brokers. Manager or corporate officer of independent escrow companies are eligible to serve on the committee. Opening announcement will be posted on the website. Anyone who qualifies is welcome to apply. Liang thanked the three members whose terms are ending on August 30, 2022. He briefly went over the purpose of the committee, , the role of committee members, the appointment process and clarifie", "ESCROW ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING June 7, 2022 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 300 S. Spring Street, 15th Floor Conference Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (866) 709-4440; participant code 7675-977 Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Adam Wright, Senior Counsel Sherri Kaufman, Senior Counsel Summer Volkmer, Senior Counsel Committee Members Via Call-In to the Conference Line: Benjamin G", "ng level to internally re-organize and dedicate resources to work on several big projects. Some of these projects include to modernize the escrow law, provide compliance training and education, revisit the assessment method after years of operating deficit, and also to explore the option to move the program on NMLS. The program will reach out to the advisory committee for guidance at the appropriate time. Benjamin Griffin stated the advisory committee may have subcommittees to assist with these projects. There may be exemptions from the public meeting act if a subcommittee consists of less tha", "row law, provide compliance training and education, revisit the assessment method after years of operating deficit, and also to explore the option to move the program on NMLS. The program will reach out to the advisory committee for guidance at the appropriate time. Benjamin Griffin stated the advisory committee may have subcommittees to assist with these projects. There may be exemptions from the public meeting act if a subcommittee consists of less than three members. Alternatively, committee members can do information gathering exercise outside of the committee and bring those findings back", "-4440; participant code 7675-977 Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Represented by: Sheila Oliver, Deputy Commissioner Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator – Regulatory Adam Wright, Senior Counsel Sherri Kaufman, Senior Counsel Summer Volkmer, Senior Counsel Committee Members Via Call-In to the Conference Line: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. / Attorney Bill Nelson, Express Escrow, Inc. / Chairperson – EAFC** Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heather Siracusa, Orchard Hills Escrow, Inc. / Small B" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-024", "slug": "2022-03-08-agenda-24", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Agenda", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-03-08", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "agenda", "recordTypeLabel": "agenda", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/02/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-8-22-Meeting.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/02/Escrow-Advisory-Committee-Agenda-for-3-8-22-Meeting.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "04c3749184d81dab2002e0bb0913b65290b867b9497a4fb495ef6a319a4b08c4", "textHash": "5ccf834fbed883adef035c0f7f236b1433fe7d38e9cfd84684295423d6beb5b8", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "summary": "agenda from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching licensing, examinations, enforcement, and remote work.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ " and approval of minutes for 12/7/21 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Remote work Paul Liang 5. Remote examination Gary Suzuki 6. Enforcement actions and licensing update Paul Liang 7. Public comments 8. Closing remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests should be directed to Pa", "AGENDA 1. Welcome and opening remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and approval of minutes for 12/7/21 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Remote work Paul Liang 5. Remote examination Gary Suzuki 6. Enforcement actions and licensing update Paul Liang 7. Public comments 8. Closing remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in", "rks Paul Liang 2. Review and approval of minutes for 12/7/21 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Remote work Paul Liang 5. Remote examination Gary Suzuki 6. Enforcement actions and licensing update Paul Liang 7. Public comments 8. Closing remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation services at least seven days in advance of the meeting. Requests ", "articipant Code: 7675-977 AGENDA 1. Welcome and opening remarks Paul Liang 2. Review and approval of minutes for 12/7/21 meeting Paul Liang 3. DFPI Updates Paul Liang 4. Remote work Paul Liang 5. Remote examination Gary Suzuki 6. Enforcement actions and licensing update Paul Liang 7. Public comments 8. Closing remarks Paul Liang (In limited occurrences or due to unforeseen circumstances, there may be a change to the order of agenda items.) Special accommodations for disabled persons, such as sign language interpreter services, are available. Please make requests for special accommodation servi" ] }, { "id": "dfpi-eac-025", "slug": "2022-03-08-meeting-minutes-25", "sourceId": "dfpi-escrow-advisory-committee", "title": "DFPI Escrow Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes", "agencyName": "California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation", "jurisdiction": "California", "meetingDate": "2022-03-08", "publishedDate": null, "recordType": "meeting_minutes", "recordTypeLabel": "meeting minutes", "sourceUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/05/2022-3-8-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "rawFileUrl": "https://dfpi.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/337/2022/05/2022-3-8-EAC-Meeting-Minutes.pdf", "sourceSnapshotHash": "4cdd9eae76ce4b1cde4aaface65dd74fefe0d72721538c0a12e9170918e26b9a", "textHash": "4618ea6cedfd96aebaca0b621d74abf96b2735e1cdbc432e5de24095d8d0784b", "extractedTextStatus": "complete", "topics": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "entityNames": [ "DFPI", "Escrow Advisory Committee" ], "quotedTerms": [ "escrow", "settlement funds", "consumer protection", "trust account", "cybersecurity", "education", "licensing", "examinations", "enforcement", "remote work" ], "summary": "meeting minutes from California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation with public discussion or agenda items touching settlement funds, consumer protection, trust account, cybersecurity, and education.", "reviewedStatus": "machine_extracted", "createdAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "updatedAt": "2026-06-03T20:12:49.069Z", "relevantPassages": [ "t provided licensees follow this guidance. If the industry believes provisions of the escrow law may be amended to allow remote work without weakening the protection for consumer funds, the industry may start a dialogue with the DFPI to find a workable path which satisfies a business need and the need for consumer protection. The two needs are not mutually exclusive. The escrow program continuously reviews escrow licensee’s remote work arrangements. It assesses the risk of cyber-attack, employee theft, and breach of consumer confidential information at a remote work location. It also assesses ", "t provided licensees follow this guidance. If the industry believes provisions of the escrow law may be amended to allow remote work without weakening the protection for consumer funds, the industry may start a dialogue with the DFPI to find a workable path which satisfies a business need and the need for consumer protection. The two needs are not mutually exclusive. The escrow program continuously reviews escrow licensee’s remote work arrangements. It assesses the risk of cyber-attack, employee theft, and breach of consumer confidential information at a remote work location. It also assesses ", "ublic places such as a coffee shop. Cassel commented the difference between a branch office and an employee remote home office may be that the branch office has a branch trust account attached to it. 8. Closing remarks Liang thanked everyone for calling-in and their participation. The next meeting is scheduled for June 7, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Meeting announcement will be posted on the department’s website. At about 12 noon, the meeting adjourned. Page 4 of 4", "onsumer protection. The two needs are not mutually exclusive. The escrow program continuously reviews escrow licensee’s remote work arrangements. It assesses the risk of cyber-attack, employee theft, and breach of consumer confidential information at a remote work location. It also assesses whether a licensee’s bonds would cover loss at a remote-work location, and how licensee maintains its books and records remotely. It is unclear how remote work would affect current branch offices. About one-third of licensed locations are escrow branch offices. Whether some of those branch licenses would be", "tection and Innovation Represented by: Paul Liang, Special Administrator – Licensing Gary Suzuki, Special Administrator - Regulatory Committee Members Via Call-In to the Conference Line: Benjamin Griffin, Griffin, P.C. / Attorney Bill Nelson, Express Escrow, Inc. / Chairperson – EAFC** Claire Bartos, Las Brisas Escrow, Inc. / Immediate Past Chairperson EIC * Heather Siracusa, Orchard Hills Escrow, Inc. / Small Business Heidi Cassel, Solaris Escrow, Inc. / Medium Sized Escrow Company Jeff Behm, Baldwin Moffitt Behm LLP, Certified Public Accountant Juliana Tu, Viva Escrow! Inc. / Business Specia" ] } ] }