Bill > H174

This bill codifies marriage equality in North Carolina by establishing clear legal protections for marriages regardless of the sex, gender, or sexual orientation of the partners. The legislation defines marriage as a legally recognized union between two consenting individuals and mandates that all state and local government entities must apply laws, policies, and regulations equally to all married couples. The bill prohibits discrimination in marriage-related services, benefits, rights, and responsibilities, and specifically requires public officials to issue marriage licenses and perform civil marriages without regard to the applicants' sex, gender, or sexual orientation. Additionally, the bill repeals previous statutes that may have limited marriage rights and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions can still be enforced. The bill becomes effective immediately upon becoming law, with the primary purpose of ensuring legal recognition and equal treatment for all married couples in North Carolina.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H174