D.C. Code § 42-1202

The Recorder of Deeds of the District of Columbia is authorized and empowered to purchase such machines and equipment as he may deem necessary or expedient for the efficient, expeditious, and economical recording of all deeds and other instruments of writing entitled by law to be recorded, and to employ such personnel as may be required to operate the same and to perform necessary services in connection therewith; and all deeds and other instruments of writing entitled by law to be recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds which are recorded by means of such machines or equipment are hereby declared to be legally recorded.