Oklahoma Senate Bill 788 Summary

• Amends 43 O.S. 2011, Section 7 regarding solemnization of marriages to establish a religious conscience exemption for persons authorized to perform marriage ceremonies.

• Permits authorized marriage performers to decline performing any marriage in violation of their right to free exercise of religion as guaranteed by the First Amendment.

• Permits churches and qualified church-controlled organizations (as defined under 26 USC 3121) to refuse participation in marriage ceremonies that violate their religious beliefs.

• Becomes effective November 1, 2015.