HB23-1278 Summary

• Permits county clerks to allow both parties to marriage and civil union applications to appear remotely via interactive audiovisual communication technology or online functionality instead of in person, at the clerk's discretion.

• Requires county clerks and staff who permit remote appearances to complete human trafficking victim awareness training developed by the human trafficking council prior to offering the service, with annual recertification required.

• Mandates county clerks maintain compliance records and display public notices regarding remote appearance options in their office and on their website.

• Repeals the December 31, 2023 sunset date, making the remote appearance provisions permanent for both marriage licenses (section 14-2-106.5) and civil union licenses (section 14-15-110.5).

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case voter approval at the November 2024 election is required.