California law prohibits wedding officiants from refusing to perform a legal marriage based on religious objections. Under California's anti-discrimination laws, wedding officiants, who are usually authorized representatives such as religious officials, judges, or county clerks, are considered to be providing a public service and are required to treat all couples equally, regardless of their religious beliefs, race, gender, or sexual orientation.
California has robust anti-discrimination protections in place, including the Unruh Civil Rights Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which prohibit discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including sexual orientation.
If a wedding officiant refuses to perform a marriage based on religious objections and the refusal violates anti-discrimination laws, they could be subject to legal consequences, including potential fines or other penalties.
It is essential to note that laws and regulations can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check the most up-to-date information regarding marriage officiant responsibilities and anti-discrimination laws in California or any other jurisdiction. If you have specific concerns or questions, consulting a legal professional would be the best course of action.