State legislators gain power to officiate weddings

ALBANY — If you're in the market for a wedding officiant, you can now consider having your local state legislator perform the ceremony.

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed off on legislation on Friday night authorizing state senators and members of the state Assembly to officiate civil ceremonies. Religious officials and select civil officials — including the governor, mayors, county executive and judges — are currently able to solemnize a marriage in New York.

"There is no reason not to extend this privilege to members of the New York state legislature," reads the legislative memorandum.

The new law takes effect immediately, and prohibits legislators from receiving compensation for officiating at nuptials.

Read more: https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/State-legislators-gain-power-to-officiate-weddings-13485464.php

This could get interesting if a gay couple requests to be married and are refused by a legislator. Would the refusal be considered discriminatory and could the couple sue the legislator?