IT'S OFFICIAL: NY allows family, friends to become 1-day wedding officiants

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ALBANY, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a law Wednesday allowing New Yorkers to become one-day marriage officiants.

"Joining individuals in marriage is a beautiful moment that should be shared with an officiant selected by the spouses-to-be," Hochul said in a statment. "By signing this legislation into law, we are eliminating any barriers to becoming an officiant so friends and family members can share such a meaningful time with loved ones of their choosing and have their marriage recognized under New York State law."

The legislation creates a new path for people over the age of 18 to apply for "one-day designation," authorizing them to solemnize a single marriage on a specified day in the state.

"New York is a premiere destination for weddings and this legislation is yet another reason for couples to celebrate here," the governor's office touted in a news release.

"New Yorkers joined in marriage by a friend or family member no longer have to worry about whether or not their marriage is legally valid thanks to the passage of this legislation," said Assemblymember Sandy Galef. "Thank you to Governor Hochul and my colleagues for your support of this legislation that will allow friends, family, and loved ones to share these meaningful moments without having a religious connection or political affiliation."

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