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HB 4604

Family law: marriage and divorce; certain references in the foreign marriage act; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 1 of 1939 PA 168 (MCL 551.271) & repeals sec. 2 of 1939 PA 168 (MCL 551.272). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Andrews and 26 co-sponsors

Michigan bill replaces gender-specific language with gender-neutral terms in 1939 Foreign Marriage Act to ensure equal legal application across all gender identities.

bill electronically reproduced 06/10/2025
#civilrights:sexualorientationdiscrimination #familylaw:marriageanddivorce
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Bill Summary · HB 4604

Legislative bill overview

HB 4604 amends Michigan's 1939 Foreign Marriage Act by removing gender-specific language and replacing it with gender-neutral terminology. The bill modifies Section 1 of the statute and repeals Section 2 entirely, modernizing outdated legal language while maintaining the substance of marriage law.

Why is this important

Marriage and divorce laws are foundational legal documents that affect all citizens' rights and responsibilities. Updating gendered language to be gender-neutral ensures the law applies equally to all people regardless of gender identity and reflects current legal standards adopted by many states. This change also potentially addresses constitutional concerns about equal protection and non-discrimination in family law.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation clarity: Repealing Section 2 entirely rather than amending it may create ambiguity about which provisions are replaced versus which remain in effect, potentially requiring court interpretation
  • Scope of changes: The bill is tied to a constitutional resolution (HJR F'25), suggesting broader implications beyond simple language updates that warrant public understanding
  • Stakeholder impact: Some traditionalist groups may oppose any modernization of marriage statutes on philosophical grounds, though the bill's legal substance appears unchanged

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

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