Family law: marriage and divorce; certain references in the provision related to marriage license without publicity; make gender neutral. Amends sec. 1 of 1897 PA 180 (MCL 551.201). TIE BAR WITH: HJR F'25

HB 4630 amends Michigan law to make marriage license provisions gender-neutral by removing the phrase "of the opposite sex" from the existing secrecy provision for marriage licenses. The bill affects individuals seeking to keep their marriage date confidential, ensuring the process applies equally regardless of the applicants' genders. Key provisions update Section 1 of 1897 PA 180 (MCL 551.201) to allow probate judges to issue marriage licenses without publicity for any applicant with a valid reason, without specifying gender. This change aligns the law with current marriage equality standards but does not alter the underlying secrecy process or requirements. The bill's effective date depends on a related constitutional amendment request (HJR F'25) being approved.