Allows Gretchen Bell to join Amber Ilcisko and Timothy Brownell in marriage on September 13, 2024, within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Impact
The enactment of S3048 will have localized implications for marriage laws in Rhode Island. By providing a direct legislative authorization for an individual to perform a marriage ceremony, the bill reinforces the state's regulations on solemnization while simultaneously recognizing the personal circumstances of the individuals involved. This tailored approach to marriage authorization might set a precedent for similar future requests where specific individuals may seek legislative approval for their wedding officiant.
Summary
Bill S3048 facilitates the solemnization of marriage for specific individuals, allowing Gretchen Bell to join Amber Ilcisko and Timothy Brownell in marriage in Newport, Rhode Island, on September 13, 2024. This bill is essentially a specific authorization to perform a marriage, in accordance with existing state laws regarding the solemnization process, under Chapter 3 of Title 15 of the General Laws. Bill S3048 is designed to acknowledge and formalize this ceremonial act through legislative approval.
Contention
Given that the bill concerns a singular event, there appears to be minimal contention surrounding S3048. Its nature as a special act for a defined scenario suggests that it has not encountered significant opposition. The absence of dissenting votes—67 in favor and none against during the voting session on May 22, 2024—indicates broad support among lawmakers, reinforcing the notion that the bill serves a goal of fulfillment for the individuals involved rather than altering existing marriage laws substantively.
Senate Resolution Urging All Rhode Islanders To Join Together In Strongly Condemning Any And All Forms Of Antisemitism (urging All Rhode Islanders To Join Together In Strongly Condemning Any And All Forms Of Antisemitism)