Brief Description: Authorizing elected officials to solemnize marriages.

Sponsors: Representatives Hudgins, Chase and Upthegrove.

Hearing Date: 1/29/04

Staff: Trudes Tango Hutcheson (786-7384).

Background:

State law authorizes the following persons, whether active or retired, to perform marriage ceremonies:

1.   licensed or ordained ministers;

2.   priests;

3.   supreme court justices;

4.   judges of the court of appeals;

5.   superior court judges; and

6.   judges of district and municipal courts.

Summary of Bill:

Elected officials, whether active or retired, in the executive or legislative branch of state, county, or municipal government may perform marriage ceremonies.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.