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HB 4629

Family law: marriage and divorce; certain references in Chapter 84 of divorce; make gender neutral. Amends secs. 9f, 23, 27, 36 & 37 of 1846 RS 84 (MCL 552.9f et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julie Brixie and 24 co-sponsors

Summary of HB 4629: Gender-Neutral Language in Michigan Divorce Laws OverviewHB 4629 is a bill that proposes to update Michigan's divorce laws by making references to marriage and

bill electronically reproduced 06/10/2025
#civilrights:sexualorientationdiscrimination #familylaw:marriageanddivorce
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Bill Summary · HB 4629

Summary of HB 4629: Gender-Neutral Language in Michigan Divorce Laws

Overview

HB 4629 is a bill that proposes to update Michigan's divorce laws by making references to marriage and divorce gender-neutral throughout Chapter 84 of the Revised Statutes of 1846. The bill aims to ensure equal treatment under the law regardless of the gender identity or sexual orientation of those involved in a marriage or divorce.

Key Provisions

  • Replaces gendered language like "husband" and "wife" with gender-neutral terms such as "spouse" and "partner" in sections 9f, 23, 27, 36, and 37 of Chapter 84.
  • Ensures that all divorce-related rights, responsibilities, and processes apply equally to same-sex and opposite-sex couples.
  • Updates terminology to reflect modern understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships and families.
  • Ties the bill to a concurrent state constitutional amendment (HJR F'25) that would constitutionally prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Impact

  • Modernizes Michigan's divorce laws to be more inclusive and equitable for LGBTQ+ couples and families.
  • Removes potential legal barriers or ambiguities that same-sex couples may have previously faced when seeking divorce.
  • Sends a symbolic message of acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights in Michigan.
  • If passed alongside the constitutional amendment, would further enshrine protections against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination into state law.

Timeline

HB 4629 was introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives on March 12, 2025. It was electronically reproduced on June 10, 2025 and is currently awaiting committee assignment and further legislative action.

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

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