TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR

CAN SOLEMNIZE MARRIAGES

House Bill 4037 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Anthony G. Forlini

Committee:  Families, Children, and Seniors

Complete to 2-23-15

SUMMARY:

The bill would amend Chapter 83 of the Revised Statutes of 1846, which provides for the solemnization of marriages, to allow a township supervisor to solemnize marriages (perform marriage ceremonies) in the county in which that township is located.

Under the bill, if a supervisor of a township solemnizes a marriage, the township supervisor would be required to charge and collect a fee, in an amount determined by the board of that township, to be paid the township treasurer and deposited in the general fund of the township at the end of the month.

The act contains a list of those public officials that can officiate at weddings; the bill would add township supervisors to the list.  Persons authorized to solemnize marriages must meet recordkeeping requirements established in the Marriage License Act, Public Act 128 of 1887.

MCL 551.7

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would appear to have no fiscal impact on the state, and little to no fiscal impact on local units of government.   A township supervisor could charge a fee for performing a marriage ceremony.  The bill is permissive.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   E. Best        

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.