Connecticut Senate Bill SB00411

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Marriage License Fees.

Impact

If passed, this bill would positively affect couples who may were previously engaged in a civil union and are now recognized as married. By waiving the fee, the legislation seeks to promote inclusivity and remove barriers for couples wishing to formalize their marriage status in legal terms. It also symbolizes broader acceptance and legal recognition of diverse relationship structures.

Summary

SB00411 aims to amend existing state laws by waiving the fee for obtaining a certified copy of a marriage license for couples whose civil union has been automatically converted to a marriage. This legislative decision reflects a recognition of the changing landscape of marriage rights and aims to alleviate the financial burden on couples who have transitioned from civil unions to legal marriages following the changes in state marriage laws.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards marriage equality, there may be some contention regarding the implications for state budget allocations related to marriage documentation. Opponents might raise concerns about the potential loss of revenue from marriage license fees, although supporters argue that social equity and the support for couples taking legal steps should take precedence over minor financial repercussions.