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SB 1045

Family law: marriage and divorce; civil celebrant; provide for. Amends secs. 1, 4 & 6 of 1887 PA 128 (MCL 551.101 et seq.).

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Veronica Klinefelt and 1 co-sponsor

Michigan bill authorizes civil celebrants to legally perform marriages, expanding solemnization options beyond judges, justices, and clergy.

placed on second reading
#familylaw:marriageanddivorce
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1045

Legislative bill overview

SB 1045 amends Michigan's marriage and divorce law (MCL 551.101 et seq.) to authorize "civil celebrants" to perform marriages. The bill modifies sections 1, 4, and 6 of the 1887 statute that governs Michigan's marriage licensing and solemnization procedures, establishing a new category of persons authorized to conduct civil marriage ceremonies alongside existing officials like judges, justices of the peace, and clergy.

Why is this important

This expansion of who can legally solemnize marriages could increase accessibility and reduce barriers for couples seeking civil ceremonies, potentially lowering costs and wait times. It also reflects evolving approaches to marriage ceremonies in states seeking alternatives to traditional religious and judicial solemnization while maintaining legal validity.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and qualifications: The bill's text doesn't specify what training, licensing, or vetting requirements civil celebrants must meet, raising questions about standardization and accountability
  • Religious liberty concerns: Some may view this as diminishing the role of religious clergy in marriage, though the bill appears to add rather than subtract options
  • Implementation gaps: Unclear whether local clerks have authority to designate or register civil celebrants, and what the enforcement mechanism is for ensuring they comply with state law

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

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