ALLOW TELECOMMUNICATION MARRIAGES

HB 557, titled "Allow Telecommunication Marriages," would amend New Mexico law to permit witnesses at marriage ceremonies to observe via telecommunication (e.g., video calls) instead of requiring physical presence. The bill does not change the requirement that the officiant (such as a judge, clergy member, or authorized civil magistrate) must be physically present in the state during the ceremony. This change would directly affect couples seeking to include remote witnesses, such as family members living out of state or overseas, in their wedding. The bill was introduced in the 2025 legislative session but was postponed indefinitely by committee action.