Bill > B26-0441

This bill amends the District of Columbia's marriage licensing procedures to allow the Mayor to issue marriage licenses and authorize marriage officiants during a federal government shutdown when the Clerk of the Superior Court is unable to do so. Specifically, the Mayor would be authorized to create a modified marriage license form, issue licenses to authorized officiants, and maintain detailed records of those licenses, including keeping copies of marriage licenses and certificates. The Mayor must number each license with a unique identifier and transmit copies of all licenses and certificates to the Clerk's Office within 5 business days. This ensures that couples can still legally marry during periods of government disruption by providing an alternative mechanism for obtaining marriage licenses. The bill will take effect after mayoral approval and a 30-day congressional review period, which is standard for D.C. legislation. The legislation aims to provide continuity of marriage services during potential federal government shutdowns, preventing administrative barriers from preventing couples from legally solemnizing their marriages.

Justice

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0441