The bill amends Section 15-3-12 of the General Laws in Chapter 15-3, which is titled "Solemnization of Marriages." The amendment changes the requirements for the endorsement and return of the marriage license by the officiant. The current law's language is modified by deleting the word "(a)" and replacing the time frame within which the "License and Certificate of Marriage" must be filed from "seventy-two (72) hours" to "two (2) business days" following the marriage ceremony. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that a filed form that is mailed and postmarked within the specified two business days is considered to be filed in a timely manner.

The explanation provided by the Legislative Council clarifies that the purpose of the act is to ensure that marriage certificates are returned for filing within two business days after the marriage ceremony. It also acknowledges the common practice of filing the return by mail and validates it, provided that the form is mailed and postmarked within the new time frame. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5443: 15-3-12