HB 905: Persons other than ministers who may perform rites of marriage; clerk may issue order.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Persons other than ministers who may perform rites of marriage; clerk; issuance of order; bond requirement. Provides that a clerk of a circuit court may issue an order authorizing one or more persons to celebrate the rites of marriage in the Commonwealth. Under current law, only a circuit court judge may issue such an order. The bill further makes discretionary the entrance into a bond in the penalty of $500 prior to performing the rites of marriage for a person authorized to celebrate the rites of marriage; under current law, such entry is mandatory. Finally, the bill civilly immunizes the clerk of any circuit court from a cause of action arising from the issuance or rescinding of such order, absent gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. April 8, 2026Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0437)
2. April 8, 2026Approved by Governor-Chapter 437 (effective 7/1/2026)
3. March 31, 2026Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
4. March 31, 2026Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
5. March 31, 2026Signed by Speaker
6. March 30, 2026Signed by President
7. March 30, 2026Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB905ER)
8. March 30, 2026Enrolled
9. March 11, 2026Senate amendments agreed to by House (73-Y 24-N 0-A)
10. March 10, 2026Passed Senate with amendments (24-Y 16-N 0-A)
11. March 10, 2026Engrossed by Senate as amended
12. March 10, 2026Courts of Justice Amendments agreed to

Showing 12 most recent of 30 actions. Full history