Bill > H3897

This bill, concerning persons authorized to perform marriage ceremonies, proposes changes to Chapter 207 of the General Laws. Specifically, it aims to clarify that the authority of any officiant who certifies a marriage by executing a "Notice of Intention" is presumed, and any marriage performed by such an officiant is presumed valid and enforceable. Additionally, the bill allows the clerk of a municipality, where a Notice of Intention of Marriage is filed, to designate any other person to solemnize a specific marriage on a particular date and location, upon application by the individuals intending to marry. This designation, which can be revoked for cause, requires the designated person to pay a twenty-five dollar fee for a certificate of designation, valid for seven days after the marriage date or until the solemnization is completed. The municipal clerk can waive this fee if good cause is shown.