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SB 287

Family law: marriage and divorce; authority to solemnize marriage; modify. Amends sec. 16 of 1846 RS 83 (MCL 551.16). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0285'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Erika Geiss and 3 co-sponsors

Michigan expands who can legally perform marriages by modifying solemnization authority requirements in state law.

referred to Committee on Government Operations
#familylaw:marriageanddivorce
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 287

Legislative bill overview

SB 287 modifies Michigan's authority to solemnize marriages by amending Section 16 of the 1846 Revised Statutes. The bill expands who is legally authorized to perform marriage ceremonies in the state. It is tied to SB 285, suggesting coordinated legislative changes to marriage solemnization requirements.

Why is this important

Marriage solemnization authority determines which individuals and officials can legally perform weddings, affecting thousands of couples annually and religious/secular officiants. Expanding this authority could increase access to preferred ceremony leaders while potentially raising questions about consistency, training, and conflict with existing regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious vs. secular balance: Changes may affect which religious figures or non-religious officiants gain authorization, creating concerns about equal treatment across belief systems
  • Vague scope: The amendment details are not fully specified in this summary, making it unclear whether expansion is narrow (specific groups) or broad (nearly anyone), which likely generated the 22-15 split vote
  • Coordination with SB 285: The tie-bar relationship suggests companion legislation may contain restrictions or requirements that clarify intent but aren't apparent here, creating legislative ambiguity

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

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