The bill amends the General Laws regarding the solemnization of marriages by introducing a new section, 15-3-5.1, which abolishes common law marriages in the state effective January 1, 2026. It specifies that no new common law marriages may be established after this date, but any common law marriages that were validly entered into or adjudicated before January 1, 2026, will continue to be recognized as valid.

Additionally, the bill modifies Section 15-1-7, which defines marriage, by inserting the term "Marriage codification" and clarifying that marriage is the legally recognized union of two individuals. It also removes the reference to "common law" from the context of marital and familial relationships, ensuring that all terms related to marriage are consistent with the new legal framework. The act is set to take effect upon its passage.

Statutes affected:
5258: 15-1-7