Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to clarify and expand the list of individuals authorized to perform civil marriages in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 517.04 to specifically include current members of the Minnesota State Senate and House of Representatives as individuals authorized to solemnize civil marriages.
• It retains the authority for other individuals such as judges, court administrators, retired judges, and licensed or ordained ministers to also perform marriages.
• Additionally, it allows individuals who register as civil marriage officiants with a local registrar to solemnize marriages.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill introduces a clear provision allowing sitting legislators to conduct civil marriage ceremonies, which was not explicitly stated in the previous law.

Relevant Terms

civil marriage, legislators, solemnize, Minnesota Statutes, marriage officiant, senate, house of representatives