WeVote
Log In

Bill

EB

Bill

HB 4710

Family law: marriage and divorce; marriage license fee; increase and earmark. Amends sec. 3 of 1887 PA 128 (MCL 551.103).

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Erin Byrnes and 9 co-sponsors

HB 4710 increases Michigan's marriage license fee and dedicates additional revenue to an unspecified earmarked purpose.

bill electronically reproduced 07/01/2025
#counties:financing #familylaw:marriageanddivorce #healthoccupations:marriageandfamilytherapists #records:marriage
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4710

Legislative bill overview

HB 4710 amends Michigan's marriage licensing statute to increase the marriage license fee and designates the additional revenue for a specific purpose. The bill modifies the foundational family law statute (MCL 551.103) that has governed marriage licensing fees since 1887. The bill is currently in the House Judiciary Committee.

Why is this important

Marriage license fees fund state administrative operations and, with this earmark provision, would direct new revenue to a designated program or service. The fee increase directly affects couples seeking to marry in Michigan, making it a consumer-facing policy change. Understanding where these funds are allocated helps taxpayers and prospective couples see the connection between licensing costs and state services.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee burden on low-income couples: Increasing marriage license fees may create financial barriers for couples with limited means, raising equity concerns about access to legal marriage
  • Lack of transparency on earmarking: The bill's language does not specify what the additional revenue will fund, making it difficult to assess whether the fee increase is justified by the intended use
  • Economic impact timing: Implementing a fee increase during economic uncertainty could discourage legal marriage formalization, potentially affecting spousal benefits and legal protections

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

Sign in to ask a question.