HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 795

BYRepresentatives Meyers, Padden and Lewis

Authorizing retired authorized persons to solemnize marriages.

House Committe on Judiciary

Majority Report:     Do pass.  (11)

     Signed by Representatives Armstrong, Chair; Crane, Vice Chair; Brough, Hargrove, Heavey, Moyer, Niemi, Padden, Patrick, Scott and Wineberry.

House Staff:Bill Perry (786-7123)

AS PASSED HOUSE MARCH 13, 1987

BACKGROUND:

A state statute authorizes members of the clergy and judges of any court in this state to solemnize marriages.

No particular form of solemnization is required, but the parties must declare their intent to be married in the presence of the judge or clergy member and at least two witnesses.  The person who solemnizes the marriage must file a certificate with the county auditor within thirty days after the marriage.  Failure to file the certificate is a misdemeanor.

SUMMARY:

Persons authorized to solemnize marriages may do so whether they are actively engaged in or retired from the position that confers that authority.

EFFECT OF SENATE AMENDMENT(S):  Allows superior court commissioners to solemnize marriages.

Fiscal Note:    Not Requested.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:     Tom Swayze, Superior Court Judges Association.

House Committee - Testified Against: None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:     The bill will clarify the current law and will help ensure availability of persons to perform marriages.

House Committee - Testimony Against: None Presented.