Texas House Bill HB3666

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/30/09
• Voted on by House: 5/13/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/29/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the application for and issuance of a marriage license.

Impact

The proposed amendments to the Family Code through HB 3666 are designed to tighten the application process for marriage licenses, aiming to prevent potential abuses, particularly in cases involving minors. This includes a clear directive for the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission to adopt rules detailing acceptable proof of legal authority for parental consent, thus increasing oversight and security in the application process. The intent behind these changes is to safeguard against fraud while not creating undue burdens for applicants who are legally entitled to consent.

Summary

House Bill 3666 aims to modify the regulations surrounding the application for and issuance of marriage licenses in Texas. Notably, the bill focuses on the requirements for all prospective applicants, including stipulations for underage individuals. It mandates that those applying on behalf of an absent applicant must provide notarized affidavits, as well as proof of identity and age, ensuring that proper documentation is adhered to during the application process. This is especially pertinent for underage applicants, who must also present evidence of parental consent or a court order authorizing the marriage.

Contention

Despite its protective intentions, the introduction of such stringent measures could spark discussions among lawmakers and constituents regarding a balance between safeguarding minors and preserving personal freedoms. Critics may argue that additional requirements could complicate the process for genuine applicants and pose barriers to those seeking to marry legally. This could lead to increased scrutiny on the bill as it progresses through further legislative stages, especially among advocates for individual rights and familial autonomy.