AL HB245

Members of churches, religious organizations, or societies referenced in Section 30-1-7 may continue their traditional marriage solemnization practices without recording documentation with the judge of probate, provided both parties exchange copies of all required documentation.

Copies of marriage documentation exchanged between parties constitute a legal record of marriage under these conditions, making recording with the judge of probate optional for qualifying religious organizations.

All requirements to obtain a marriage license in Alabama are abolished and repealed; the requirement of a marriage ceremony to solemnize a marriage is also abolished.

Marriage documentation must contain full legal names of both parties and notarized affidavits from each party declaring they are not currently married, are of legal age (with parental consent if 16-17), are legally competent, are not related by blood or adoption, and are entering the marriage voluntarily.

The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.