Rhode Island Senate Bill S1012

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/15/23
• Refer: 5/15/23
• Report Pass: 5/23/23
• Engrossed: 5/25/23
• Refer: 5/26/23
• Report Pass: 5/30/23
• Enrolled: 6/6/23
• Passed: 6/12/23

Caption

Relating To Solemnization Of Marriages

Impact

The enactment of S1012 serves to empower an individual specifically designated within the bill to perform marriage rites. This provides an exception to the general law concerning marriage solemnization, which typically requires officiants to have certain qualifications or adhere to specific regulations. Such a provision is significant, indicating potential flexibility in state laws with respect to who may officiate marriages and under what circumstances. It may also spark further discussions on the requirements and powers of marriage officiants within the state.

Voting

The bill was presented for a vote, which occurred on June 6, 2023, and passed with an overwhelming majority, 72 votes in favor and none against. This consensus highlights the bill's acceptance among legislators, indicating a likely alignment in values concerning the facilitation of marriage in the state.

Summary

S1012 is a legislative act allowing Socrates Barbosa to officiate the marriage of Theresa Matos Agonia and Alexander David Miller in Warwick, Rhode Island, on or about July 15, 2023. The bill is specific in nature as it addresses only this particular marriage and person, deviating from standard marriage laws that generally govern wider practices. This bill introduces a provision that is not uncommon, as individual legislative acts can authorize specific instances of marriage solemnization, creating unique legal situations for the individuals involved.

Contention

While S1012 primarily serves as a localized resolution to a singular marriage event, discussions regarding similar legislation could bring forth debates about overarching marriage laws and the regulations governing marriage solemnization practices. Although no contention was noted in the provided documents regarding opposition or support for this specific bill, discussions around marriage laws often touch on larger themes of inclusivity, access to marriage rights, and local authority in governance.