Texas Senate Bill SB935

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/16/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/8/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Governor Action: 5/23/09
• Enrolled: 5/13/09
• Passed: 5/23/09

Caption

Relating to authorizing a judge of a municipal court to conduct a marriage ceremony.

Impact

By including municipal judges as authorized persons to conduct marriages, SB935 may impact how marriage services are delivered across the state. Individuals looking to marry can now choose from a wider pool of officiants, which may help alleviate scheduling issues and accessibility challenges, particularly in less populous or rural areas. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2009, ensuring that it applies to ceremonies conducted after this date, while providing clarity on the governance of any ceremonies held prior to its enactment.

Summary

Senate Bill 935 seeks to expand the list of individuals authorized to conduct marriage ceremonies in Texas by including judges from municipal courts. This bill amends Section 2.202(a) of the Texas Family Code, recognizing municipal court judges alongside other judicial figures and religious authorities as legitimate officiants of marriage ceremonies. The legislation aims to facilitate access to marriage services, particularly in areas where individuals might face difficulty in finding available officiants, thereby promoting civil accessibility and inclusivity.

Contention

While the bill seems straightforward, potential points of contention may arise from differing opinions on the role of judges in civil ceremonies. Some may argue for the traditional view that marriage should predominantly be a religious ceremony conducted by religious figures. Conversely, proponents may advocate for judicial officiation as a legitimate and efficient means of fulfilling civil marriage requirements. This ongoing dialogue highlights the balance between legal authority and religious practices within the scope of marriage law in Texas.