During the recent Utah General Legislative Session, Senator Weiler spotlighted the growing trend of virtual marriages, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures to ensure the integrity of the process. The senator recounted his surprising experience with a couple from Australia seeking to have their wedding officiated online, highlighting the unexpected global interest in Utah's virtual marriage services.

Weiler introduced Senate Bill 81, aimed at establishing "guardrails" around virtual marriages to prevent issues such as plural or child marriages. He noted that while the initiative has been largely successful, it is crucial to implement safeguards to maintain ethical standards. The bill has garnered support from county clerks and the Utah Association of Counties, with no known opposition.

The senator revealed that Utah's virtual marriage program has become particularly popular among Israeli couples, contributing over a million dollars annually in marriage certificate fees. This revenue supports various state offices, including the Lieutenant Governor's office and the marriage commission.

In closing, Weiler expressed his desire for Utah to be recognized as a leader in virtual marriages, akin to Las Vegas for traditional weddings, while firmly opposing any association with polygamous or child marriages. The bill is set to move forward, reflecting a balance between innovation and responsible governance in the evolving landscape of marriage services.