MS HB568

Reduces the required waiting period for marriage license applications from three days to twenty-four hours before a circuit court clerk may issue the license.

Allows judges to waive the twenty-four-hour waiting period by written authorization if sufficient reasons exist and the applicant(s) meet residency requirements.

Maintains all existing requirements for marriage license applications, including age verification (male at least 17, female at least 15), medical certificates, and parental notification for underage applicants.

Establishes penalties for circuit court clerks who issue licenses without complying with these provisions: fines between $50 and $500, and liability under their official bond.

Effective date: July 1, 2010.