Rhode Island House Bill H6306

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/7/25
• Refer: 5/7/25
• Report Pass: 5/15/25
• Engrossed: 5/22/25
• Refer: 6/6/25
• Report Pass: 6/10/25
• Enrolled: 6/18/25
• Passed: 6/24/25

Caption

Allows Daniel Vaca to join Kaley Erin O’Connor and James John Pawelski in marriage on or about October 12, 2025, within the City of Newport, Rhode Island

Summary

House Bill H6306 is a legislative act that specifically permits Daniel Vaca to solemnize the marriage of Kaley Erin O'Connor and James John Pawelski on or about October 12, 2025, within the City of Newport, Rhode Island. This act is unique as it directly authorizes an individual to perform a marriage ceremony, typically a function reserved for licensed officiants, such as clergy and other individuals recognized by law to officiate marriages. This authorization is in line with Chapter 3 of Title 15 of the General Laws of Rhode Island, which outlines the general provisions relating to the solemnization of marriages. The bill has a straightforward aim, primarily offering a legal pathway for a specific individual to conduct the marriage ceremony, thus accommodating the desires of the individuals involved in the nuptials. The act's implementation hinges on its passage, suggesting that it is intended for immediate effect post-approval, which is common in such personal authorization legislation. This specificity helps streamline the legal recognition of the ceremony planned for the specified date. As a localized act, H6306 highlights the personal nature of marriage regulations within the state, often embedding cultural, social, and sometimes familial considerations. While there are no broader implications on state laws mentioned within the text, any bill that addresses the solemnization of marriages touches upon the personal liberties of individuals to choose who may officiate significant life events. In terms of contention, while the text does not indicate opposition or debate, similar bills in various jurisdictions can sometimes provoke discussions regarding the qualifications and responsibilities of those who are authorized to solemnize marriages, as well as the implications for marriage equality and religious freedoms. Thus, while this specific bill seems straightforward, it exists within a broader context of ongoing discussions about marriage laws and rights in Rhode Island.