Overview

This bill aims to legalize same-sex marriage in several UK Overseas Territories. It requires the Governors of these territories to amend existing laws to ensure same-sex couples have the same marriage rights as opposite-sex couples, while respecting religious freedoms.

Description

This bill mandates the legalization of same-sex marriage in Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Montserrat, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key aspects include:

• Legal Recognition: Same-sex marriages will be legally recognized and have the same legal effect as opposite-sex marriages.
• Governor's Role: The Governor of each territory must adjust local laws to reflect this change within six months.
• Civil Marriage: Provisions must be made for the civil solemnization of same-sex marriages mirroring those for opposite-sex couples.
• Religious Marriage: The bill allows for the solemnization of religious same-sex marriages, but explicitly prevents any religious organization or individual from being compelled to participate against their beliefs.
• Delegation of Powers: The Governor can delegate their responsibilities under the act.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending. The costs will likely be associated with legislative amendments and administrative changes within the affected territories, but no figures are provided in the text.

Groups Affected

The bill directly impacts:

• Same-sex couples in the listed Overseas Territories: They will gain the right to marry and enjoy equal legal rights to marriage.
• Religious organizations: They are protected from being forced to conduct or participate in same-sex marriages against their beliefs.
• Governors of the listed Overseas Territories: They have a legal obligation to amend existing legislation to comply with this bill.
• Individuals within the listed Overseas Territories: their access to legal processes that apply to marriage and their overall perception of rights within the territories will be affected.

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