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SB 285

Family law: marriage and divorce; persons authorized to solemnize marriage; modify. Amends sec. 7 of 1846 RS 83 (MCL 551.7). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0286'25

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

SB 285 modifies Michigan law governing who is authorized to perform legal marriages, with effects on access and administration details dependent on specific amendments not fully disclosed.

referred to Committee on Government Operations
#familylaw:marriageanddivorce
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 285

Legislative bill overview

SB 285 amends Michigan's marriage solemnization statute (MCL 551.7) to modify which persons are authorized to perform marriages. The bill is tied to SB 286, suggesting coordinated changes to family law procedures. The specific substantive changes are not detailed in the provided legislative summary, making the precise impact unclear from available information.

Why is this important

Marriage solemnization authority directly affects who can legally perform weddings in Michigan and may impact religious organizations, civil officiants, and couples' choices. Changes to this authority can have implications for access to marriage services, religious freedoms, and administrative processes in family law.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authorized persons: Expanding who can solemnize marriages (e.g., to include non-religious officiants or specific groups) versus restricting authority may face opposition from religious organizations or traditional stakeholders
  • Religious exemptions or protections: Whether the amendment includes conscience protections for clergy or addresses conflicts between religious doctrine and state authorization requirements
  • Implementation and verification: Changes may create administrative burden for counties/municipalities to verify eligibility of new categories of marriage officiants

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

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