The bill amends New Mexico's marriage laws to allow marriages to be solemnized via telecommunication. It introduces new definitions, stating that "solemnize" refers to joining in marriage before witnesses through a ceremony, and defines "witness" as a person at least eighteen years old who observes the ceremony in real time, whether in person or via telecommunication. This change expands the options for couples to have their marriages officiated remotely, accommodating modern communication methods.

Additionally, the bill specifies that couples must still obtain a marriage license from a county clerk and that the ceremony must be conducted by an authorized individual who is physically present in the state at the time of the ceremony. This ensures that while telecommunication is permitted, there remains a requirement for the officiant to be in New Mexico during the marriage ceremony. The amendments aim to modernize the marriage process while maintaining legal standards for solemnization.

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