The bill amends the existing marriage laws in Michigan, specifically 1887 PA 128, by updating the language and requirements for obtaining a marriage license and officiating a marriage. It specifies that all parties intending to marry must obtain a marriage license from the county clerk where either party resides, and if both are nonresidents, the license must be obtained from the county where the marriage will take place. The bill also clarifies that the officiant, referred to as "the person" rather than "clergyman or magistrate," must fill out the marriage certificate with specific details and keep accurate records of all marriages performed.
Additionally, the bill increases the penalties for officiants who perform marriages without a properly issued license. It changes the fine for such violations from $100 to $500 and specifies that violators may face imprisonment for up to 90 days. The amendments aim to modernize the language of the law and ensure compliance with the requirements for marriage officiation in Michigan. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of Senate Bill No. 285.
Statutes affected: Senate Introduced Bill: 551.101
As Passed by the Senate: 551.101