New Law Would Streamline Marriage Officiant Authorization

PROVIDENCE, RI — A proposed law would make it easier for family and friends of couples to have the authority to solemnize a marriage. If signed into law, the bill would modernize and streamline the process, which currently requires approval from the state's General Assembly.

Twin bills will be introduced into the House and Senate by House Majority Whip Katherine Kazarian and Senate Majority Leader Michael McCaffrey, respectively.

"It is an inconvenience to the people of Rhode Island that they need to seek a formal act of law just because they want a friend or family member to officiate at their wedding," McCaffrey said. "Votes and committee meetings are also a very inefficient way to handle what amounts to a clerical task. Getting married should be a joyous occasion, and there’s no reason the state needs to bog it down with red tape."

Under the current Rhode Island law, only the General Assembly has the authority to grant someone the ability to solemnize a marriage. The bill would extend this authority to the governor, as well, making it possible to complete the process online. The person would apply to the governor's office, with a fee of $25 payable to the Secretary of State, or $20 for online forms. The authorization would expire after the day of the wedding.

"This bill will modernize the process by placing it online and ensuring that it’s available to all Rhode Islanders year round," Kazarian said. "Some time ago, I was contacted by a constituent in July about their nuptials scheduled for September. Unfortunately, the General Assembly had already concluded its session for the year and there was no other alternative possible. It broke my heart when I had to tell my constituent there was nothing I could do to ensure their perfect wedding with the officiant of their choice and this is why this legislation is needed to modernize our system in Rhode Island."