Senator John Damoose has voiced strong opposition to a set of bills passed by the Michigan Senate, arguing they undermine the institution of marriage. According to Damoose, "When combined, these bills significantly diminish the sanctity of marriage and what this holy union is supposed to represent."
The legislation includes Senate Bills 1044 and 1045, which broaden the criteria for who can officiate a marriage ceremony. These bills remove specific references to clergy members in existing statutes and allow any individual aged 18 or older to conduct a wedding if it aligns with the wishes of the couple.
Additionally, Senate Bills 1083, 1084, and 1085 aim to repeal state laws that criminalize adultery. Damoose quoted a colleague who noted that "The police aren’t out roaming the streets looking for people committing adultery," highlighting that such laws are not actively enforced. Despite this, Damoose emphasized that "there is a compelling societal interest to prevent normalizing adultery," citing its potential negative impact on children and family dynamics.
These bills were introduced between late October and early November and have swiftly progressed through committee review before reaching a full Senate vote. The proposed legislation now awaits consideration by the Michigan House of Representatives.
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