This bill amends the 1939 PA 168, which governs the recognition of marriages solemnized in other states. The key changes include the removal of the phrase "a man and a woman" and the addition of "2 parties," thereby broadening the definition of marriage to include all couples, regardless of gender. Additionally, the term "clergyman" is replaced with "clergy person," reflecting a more inclusive language. The bill asserts that marriages contracted by residents of Michigan, who are legally competent to marry and solemnized in another state by an authorized individual, will be recognized as valid and binding in Michigan.

Furthermore, the bill repeals section 2 of the original act, which previously contained provisions that limited the recognition of same-sex marriages. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the approval of specific Senate or House Joint Resolutions that would amend the state constitution. This legislative change aims to ensure that all marriages, regardless of the gender of the parties involved, are recognized equally under Michigan law.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 551.271, 551.272