The bill amends New Mexico's marriage laws to allow marriages to be conducted via telecommunication. It introduces new definitions for "solemnize" and "witness," clarifying that a marriage ceremony can be joined in real time, either in person or through telecommunication. This change aims to modernize the process of solemnizing marriages, making it more accessible for couples who may not be able to meet in person.

Additionally, the bill specifies that couples must still obtain a marriage license from a county clerk, but it allows for the ceremony to be conducted by an authorized person who is physically present in the state at the time of the ceremony. This amendment ensures that while telecommunication is permitted, there is still a requirement for the officiant to be present in New Mexico, maintaining a level of legal oversight in the marriage process.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 40-1-2, 40-1-10