Bill > SB0285

This bill amends Michigan's existing marriage laws to expand the list of individuals who are authorized to solemnize (officially perform) marriages. The bill adds several new categories of people who can perform marriages, including township supervisors, a new designation called "civil celebrants" (defined as individuals at least 18 years old who work according to the couple's wishes), and state legislators. The bill also makes some technical changes to language describing existing authorized officiants, such as district court judges, municipal judges, probate judges, federal court judges, city mayors, county clerks, and religious practitioners. The bill maintains existing requirements that marriage officiants keep proper records and return licenses and certificates as required by law. For city mayors and county clerks performing marriages, the bill preserves existing provisions about collecting and depositing fees. The bill is tied to another piece of legislation (Senate Bill 286) and will only take effect if that companion bill is also enacted into law. This update appears designed to provide more flexibility and options for couples seeking to get married by broadening the range of individuals who can legally perform marriage ceremonies in Michigan.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0285