MORT CERTIF RELEASE-PENALTY

Amends the Mortgage Certificate of Release Act. Provides that, if any title insurance company or its duly appointed title insurance agent, knowing the mortgage to be paid pursuant to the lender's written payoff statement, fails to file a certificate of release within one month after the payment of the debt secured by the mortgage or trust deed, the title company shall be liable for and pay to the party aggrieved the sum of $200, for each offense, which may be recovered by the party aggrieved in a civil action together with reasonable attorney's fees. Provides that, in any such action, introduction of a loan payment book or receipt that indicates that the obligation has been paid shall be sufficient evidence to raise a presumption that the obligation has been paid. Provides that, upon a finding for the party aggrieved, the court shall order the title insurance company or its duly appointed title insurance agent, to make, execute, and deliver the certificate of release that complies with the requirements of this Act.