In response to many complaints from Connecticut JPs and Town Clerks, in 2022 the Justice of the Peace Association researched how civil marriage officiants are appointed in the state. Given that, the following white paper summarizes our findings and legislative recommendations. Related Links On March 10, 2023, JPus testified to the Connecticut Planning and Development Committee. See JPus’s survey results about officiant qualifications and appointments. See how JPus is advocating to address the problems with amateur officiants Learn about the JP and notary role, state-by-state We advocate on other marriage-related issues
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2023 Testimony to End Child Marriage in NH
The Justice of the Peace Association submitted written testimony in support of New Hampshire’s 2023 bill to end child marriage. Related Links Information about our advocacy and partnerships for officiants about child and forced marriage. Education and training for officiants about child and forced marriage JPus has been on the forefront of legislative activity to end child marriage in other states Follow our state-by-state changes to marriage laws How membership voted to join the Coalition to End Child Marriage Working with our partners amplifies our voice and helps achieve our goals
One-Day Rule: The Problem
The Problem Justice of the Peace Association members have long decried the problem of the lay officiant. In Massachusetts the One-Day Solemnizer causes particular distress. Problems include: The state treats lay and professional officiants differently and unfairly, to the detriment of JPs. Municipal town clerks complain that as many as 90% of One-Day Solemnizers made significant legal errors, doubling the amount of work they had to do. One-Day Solemnizers compromise the integrity of the marriage license and are “loose with the law”. Couples who use a One-Day Solemnizer may unwittingly jeopardize the validity of their marriage because important paperwork isn’t […]
Ask the Legislators
Questions for Legislators – Tell us what YOU would like to ask! On Saturday, March 13, 2021, the Justice of the Peace Association will hold a virtual conference for marriage officiants. The morning keynote will be a moderated panel discussion with state legislators from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Topics of discussion will include: amateur officiants child marriage virtual ceremonies and more. Including your questions, comments and ideas will make the conversation more meaningful. What questions do YOU want to ask? Please tell us here. Related Links Click Here to Visit the Conference Site & Register Frequently Asked Questions about the conference. […]
NH lay officiant bill fiscally flawed
Ways and Means Committee Hearing JPus continued its opposition New Hampshire’s House Bill 1599, which would permit special marriage officiants. The House Ways and Means Committee will consider testimony on the bill on March 4, 2020. As a result, JPus presented testimony to all members of the Committee. Read more.