First Same-Sex Marriage License Issued In Livingston

Livingston has issued its first same-sex marriage license since the marriages became legal last week. 

Heidi Blum and her partner Michele have become the first to apply and receive a same-sex marriage license in the township on Monday, the Alternative Press has reported.

Officials across the state presided over New Jersey’s first same-sex marriages Monday after a state Supreme Court decision on Friday, Oct. 18, paved the way for same-sex marriages, according to Reuters. On Monday, Gov. Chris Christie dropped his appeal of the court ruling to allow gay marriage in the state.

Blum and her partner Michele were previously married in Massachusetts where same-sex marriage has been legal since 2004, according to the article. Because the two had a civil union in New Jersey before Friday's ruling, Blum and her partner are recognized as a legally married couple in the state, according to the article. 

Same-Sex Marriage Applications 

Residents can now apply for same-sex marriage licenses at the Livingston health department. 

Livingston Health Department Officer Louis Anello said on Wednesday a few residents have made inquires about the application process for same-sex marriages. 

He added that applications for same-sex marriages are ready and waiting at town hall. 

“We are ready to go,” said Anello. "It’s the same process for anyone else that wants to file for a marriage license. We’ll take them [the applications] when they come in.” 

Those interested in applying for same-sex marriages in Livingston need to bring with them identification, such as birth certificates or passports, proof of residency and a witness to the health department. There is also a state marriage application fee of $28.

Under New Jersey law, all people wishing to be married must file a marriage license application at least 72 hours in advance of the ceremony.