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HB 733

An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in marriage ceremony, further providing for persons qualified to solemnize marriages.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Aaron Bernstine and 11 co-sponsors

HB 733 expands Pennsylvania's list of people legally allowed to perform marriages, modifying domestic relations law to include additional officiant categories.

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Bill Summary · HB 733

Legislative bill overview

HB 733 modifies Pennsylvania's marriage laws by expanding who is legally authorized to solemnize (perform) marriages. The bill amends Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically the section governing marriage ceremonies. The exact scope of expansion is not detailed in this bill description, but it represents a change to current qualifications for marriage officiants.

Why is this important

Marriage solemnization authority affects thousands of Pennsylvanians annually and impacts religious freedom, access to ceremony options, and administrative efficiency. Broadening who can legally perform marriages may accommodate diverse religious practices, non-religious ceremonies, and address potential shortages of available officiants in certain regions. This also reflects evolving social attitudes toward marriage ceremony customization.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious versus secular balance: Expanding officiants may create tensions between accommodating diverse religious traditions and maintaining consistent state oversight of marriage validity
  • Undefined qualifications and accountability: Lack of clarity on new officiants' qualifications could raise concerns about proper documentation, legal validity of marriages, and fraud prevention
  • Scope of expansion: Sponsors' diverse political backgrounds suggest debate over how far expansion should go—whether it includes non-religious performers, online ordinations, or other unconventional options

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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