The legality of marriage between first cousins varies significantly across the United States. While it's generally frowned upon socially and considered taboo in many cultures, the legal landscape is surprisingly nuanced. Understanding the specific laws in each state is crucial, as penalties for violating these laws can range from fines to criminal charges.
States Where First Cousin Marriage is Legal:
Currently, first cousin marriage is legal in some states, although the specific requirements and limitations may differ. It's crucial to note that the legality often hinges on additional factors like the ages of the individuals involved and whether a specific dispensation or license is required. This is not an exhaustive list, and laws can change, so always consult the most up-to-date information from official state sources before making any decisions:
- Alabama: Allows first-cousin marriage under certain circumstances.
- Alaska: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Arizona: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Arkansas: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- California: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Colorado: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Connecticut: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Delaware: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Florida: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Georgia: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Hawaii: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Idaho: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Illinois: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Indiana: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Iowa: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Kansas: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Kentucky: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Louisiana: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Maine: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Maryland: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Massachusetts: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Michigan: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Minnesota: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Mississippi: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Missouri: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Montana: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Nebraska: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Nevada: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- New Hampshire: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- New Jersey: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- New Mexico: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- New York: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- North Carolina: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- North Dakota: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Ohio: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Oklahoma: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Oregon: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Pennsylvania: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Rhode Island: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- South Carolina: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- South Dakota: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Tennessee: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Texas: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Utah: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Vermont: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Virginia: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Washington: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- West Virginia: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Wisconsin: Allows first-cousin marriage.
- Wyoming: Allows first-cousin marriage.
States Where First Cousin Marriage is Illegal:
While many states permit it, several others explicitly prohibit marriage between first cousins. Again, consulting official state resources is paramount. This is not an exhaustive list and laws are subject to change.
- (Check with individual state websites for a definitive list)
Important Considerations:
- State Laws Change: Laws governing marriage are subject to change. Always verify the current legal status with official government websites before making any decisions.
- Dispensation or Licenses: Even in states where it's legal, specific licenses or dispensations might be required.
- Health Concerns: There are increased risks of genetic disorders in children born to first cousins. Couples considering marriage should understand and discuss these risks with genetic counselors.
This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. For accurate and up-to-date legal information, consult with a legal professional familiar with family law in your specific state.
