Comprehensive Guide- States Where First Cousin Marriage is Legal Across the United States

What States Allow First Cousin Marriage: A Comprehensive Guide

In many cultures, the concept of marriage between first cousins is not only accepted but also celebrated. However, the legality of such unions varies significantly from one country to another, and even within countries, different states or regions may have their own laws regarding first cousin marriage. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to what states in the United States allow first cousin marriage.

Legal Status of First Cousin Marriage in the United States

The United States is a federal republic with a complex legal system that allows for a wide range of laws at both the federal and state levels. When it comes to first cousin marriage, the legality varies from state to state. Here is a breakdown of the states that allow first cousin marriage:

1. Alabama: First cousin marriage is legal in Alabama, but it is subject to certain restrictions, such as a waiting period and a blood test to ensure the couple is not related by adoption.

2. Alaska: First cousin marriage is legal in Alaska, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

3. Arizona: First cousin marriage is legal in Arizona, but it is subject to a 90-day waiting period and a blood test to ensure the couple is not related by adoption.

4. Arkansas: First cousin marriage is legal in Arkansas, but it is subject to a 90-day waiting period and a blood test to ensure the couple is not related by adoption.

5. California: First cousin marriage is legal in California, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

6. Colorado: First cousin marriage is legal in Colorado, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

7. Connecticut: First cousin marriage is legal in Connecticut, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

8. Delaware: First cousin marriage is legal in Delaware, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

9. District of Columbia: First cousin marriage is legal in the District of Columbia, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

10. Florida: First cousin marriage is legal in Florida, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

11. Georgia: First cousin marriage is legal in Georgia, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

12. Hawaii: First cousin marriage is legal in Hawaii, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

13. Idaho: First cousin marriage is legal in Idaho, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

14. Illinois: First cousin marriage is legal in Illinois, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

15. Indiana: First cousin marriage is legal in Indiana, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

16. Iowa: First cousin marriage is legal in Iowa, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

17. Kansas: First cousin marriage is legal in Kansas, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

18. Kentucky: First cousin marriage is legal in Kentucky, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

19. Louisiana: First cousin marriage is legal in Louisiana, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

20. Maine: First cousin marriage is legal in Maine, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

21. Maryland: First cousin marriage is legal in Maryland, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

22. Massachusetts: First cousin marriage is legal in Massachusetts, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

23. Michigan: First cousin marriage is legal in Michigan, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

24. Minnesota: First cousin marriage is legal in Minnesota, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

25. Mississippi: First cousin marriage is legal in Mississippi, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

26. Missouri: First cousin marriage is legal in Missouri, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

27. Montana: First cousin marriage is legal in Montana, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

28. Nebraska: First cousin marriage is legal in Nebraska, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

29. Nevada: First cousin marriage is legal in Nevada, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

30. New Hampshire: First cousin marriage is legal in New Hampshire, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

31. New Jersey: First cousin marriage is legal in New Jersey, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

32. New Mexico: First cousin marriage is legal in New Mexico, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

33. New York: First cousin marriage is legal in New York, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

34. North Carolina: First cousin marriage is legal in North Carolina, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

35. North Dakota: First cousin marriage is legal in North Dakota, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

36. Ohio: First cousin marriage is legal in Ohio, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

37. Oklahoma: First cousin marriage is legal in Oklahoma, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

38. Oregon: First cousin marriage is legal in Oregon, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

39. Pennsylvania: First cousin marriage is legal in Pennsylvania, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

40. Rhode Island: First cousin marriage is legal in Rhode Island, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

41. South Carolina: First cousin marriage is legal in South Carolina, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

42. South Dakota: First cousin marriage is legal in South Dakota, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

43. Tennessee: First cousin marriage is legal in Tennessee, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

44. Texas: First cousin marriage is legal in Texas, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

45. Utah: First cousin marriage is legal in Utah, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

46. Vermont: First cousin marriage is legal in Vermont, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

47. Virginia: First cousin marriage is legal in Virginia, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

48. Washington: First cousin marriage is legal in Washington, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

49. West Virginia: First cousin marriage is legal in West Virginia, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

50. Wisconsin: First cousin marriage is legal in Wisconsin, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

51. Wyoming: First cousin marriage is legal in Wyoming, with no restrictions other than the requirement that both parties are of legal age.

Conclusion

Understanding the legality of first cousin marriage in different states is crucial for individuals considering such unions. While many states in the United States allow first cousin marriage with no restrictions, others have specific requirements or outright bans. It is essential to consult local laws and regulations to ensure that any potential marriage is legally recognized.