This bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code to redefine marriage and related terms, transitioning from the traditional definition of marriage as a union between "one man and one woman" to a more inclusive definition of "two individuals." Key changes include the removal of gender-specific language, replacing terms like "husband" and "wife" with "spouse" or "individuals married to each other." These updates are reflected in multiple sections, including definitions of marriage, mutual obligations, and duties to support, thereby recognizing the rights and responsibilities of all married couples, regardless of gender.

Furthermore, the bill modernizes legal protections and responsibilities within marriage, addressing issues such as the duty to support, property rights, and the recognition of foreign marriages. It clarifies that the spousal relationship does not provide immunity in legal proceedings and modifies adoption laws to allow for more inclusive definitions of who may adopt. The bill also ensures that individuals who have divorced or annulled their marriage are not considered surviving spouses unless they remarry the decedent, and it emphasizes the need for joint execution of certain legal documents by married individuals. Overall, the bill aims to update North Dakota's marriage laws to reflect contemporary understandings of marital relationships and ensure equal treatment under the law for all couples.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-23-09, 14-02-07, 14-03-01, 14-03-08, 14-05-06, 14-05-18, 14-07-01, 14-07-03, 14-07-04, 14-07-06, 14-07-07, 14-07-08, 14-07-12, 14-07-13, 14-07-14, 14-12.2-28, 14-14.1-30, 14-15-03, 14-15-20, 14-18-05, 14-18-08, 20.1-03-06, 30.1-10-02, 30.1-10-04, 35-01-04, 47-18-04, 47-18-05, 47-18-14, 50-25.1-10, 54-52.4-02, 57-38-31, 57-40.3-04, 57-40.3-07, 57-40.5-03