House Bill No. 2205 amends Oklahoma's marriage laws, specifically 43 O.S. 2021, Section 7, to update the list of individuals authorized to perform marriage ceremonies. The bill modifies the language to include "deacon" and "elder of the Gospel" alongside existing titles such as judge, ordained preacher, minister, priest, and rabbi. The previous term "minister of the Gospel" has been removed, and the requirement for these individuals to be at least eighteen years of age remains intact. Additionally, the bill stipulates that those performing ceremonies must certify their credentials on the marriage certificate.

The bill also maintains provisions for marriages within certain religious societies, such as the Friends (Quakers) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, allowing them to solemnize marriages according to their practices. The effective date for this legislation is set for November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced:
Sub Committee OR Policy Committee Recommendations (House) Policy Committee Recommendation: