Connecticut Senate Bill SB00396

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/2/18

Caption

An Act Concerning Justices Of The Peace Who May Serve As Marriage Officiants.

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it will notably alter the landscape of marriage officiation in the state. By granting the Secretary of State the authority to appoint justices of the peace for individual marriage ceremonies, this legislation aims to simplify the marriage process for couples while potentially reducing the bureaucratic hurdles currently faced in securing an officiant. Furthermore, it ensures that all marriages solemnized under this provision are acknowledged as valid, thus enhancing the recognition of diverse officiation methods across the state.

Summary

SB00396, titled 'An Act Concerning Justices Of The Peace Who May Serve As Marriage Officiants,' is designed to modify the existing regulations surrounding who can solemnize marriages in the state. The primary change proposed in the bill allows justices of the peace to be appointed by the Secretary of State to perform marriage ceremonies, specifically for a single joining of individuals. This amendment to Section 46b-22 of the general statutes is intended to streamline the officiation process and widen the pool of individuals who can legally conduct marriages, addressing the need for more accessible marriage officiants in various communities.

Contention

While the bill seeks to promote accessibility, it may not be without controversy. Opponents might argue that by allowing the Secretary of State to appoint officiants, there is a risk of undermining the traditional structures of marriage officiation, which typically involve judges and ordained clergy. Additionally, the proposal could raise concerns regarding the standards and qualifications required for justices of the peace serving in this capacity. Some may call for more rigorous guidelines to ensure that officiants maintain the integrity of the marriage solemnization process.