Relating to the proof of an applicant's identity and age required for the issuance of a marriage license.
Impact
The implementation of SB723 would modernize the requirements for marriage license applications in Texas, promoting inclusivity and potentially reducing barriers for individuals who may once have struggled to prove their identity under the previous list of accepted documents. By allowing a greater variety of identification sources, the bill is expected to streamline the marriage licensing process and reduce administrative burdens on county clerks who handle these applications.
Summary
Senate Bill 723 (SB723) proposes amendments to the Texas Family Code concerning the proof of identity and age required for the issuance of marriage licenses. Specifically, the bill updates the documentation that applicants must submit when applying for a marriage license, expanding the list of acceptable proofs of identity to include a broader range of identification documents such as military IDs and various forms of citizenship documentation. This change aims to ensure that the application process is accessible to a wider demographic and reflects contemporary standards of identification.
Contention
While SB723 may face little opposition due to its emphasis on accessibility, some potential issues of contention could arise from the differing opinions on what constitutes adequate proof of identity. Questions about security, privacy, and the authenticity of varied identification documents remain concerns. Legislators may debate the balance between simplifying access to marriage licenses and ensuring the integrity of the identification process to prevent fraud or misrepresentation.
Relating to the requirement that a peace officer take possession of a person's driver's license following the person's failure to pass or refusal to consent to a test for intoxication.
Relating to the licensing in this state of a person licensed in another jurisdiction to practice marriage and family therapy or professional counseling.
Relating to the licensing in this state of a person licensed in another jurisdiction to practice psychology, marriage and family therapy, or professional counseling.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information on a marriage license, an application for a marriage license, and a declaration of informal marriage.
Relating to the issuance and acceptance of a high school student identification card and certain other forms of identification as identification for voting.
Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.
Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.