In Connecticut, marriage between first cousins is currently permitted under state law.
Legal Framework
Connecticut statutes prohibit marriages between close relatives, including parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, a parent’s sibling, a sibling’s child, stepparents, and stepchildren. Notably, first cousins are not included in this list of prohibited relationships, thereby allowing such marriages to occur legally in Connecticut.
Proposed Legislative Changes
As of February 2025, there is a proposed bill introduced by State Representative Devin Carney aiming to amend Connecticut’s marriage laws to include first cousins in the list of prohibited marriages. This legislative initiative seeks to align Connecticut with over 30 other states that have already banned first-cousin marriages. The bill is currently under consideration by the legislature’s judiciary committee.
Comparison with Other States
Marriage laws concerning first cousins vary across the United States. While Connecticut currently permits such unions, at least 16 states, including Alabama, California, and New York, also allow first-cousin marriages. Conversely, over 30 states have enacted prohibitions against these marriages.
Legal Implications
Currently, marriages between first cousins in Connecticut are legally recognized and carry the same rights and responsibilities as any other marriage. Should the proposed legislation pass, future first-cousin marriages would be prohibited, and any such unions contracted after the law’s enactment would be considered invalid.
Cohabitation and Consensual Relationships
Connecticut law does not explicitly address cohabitation or consensual sexual relationships between first cousins. Given that marriage between first cousins is currently legal, their cohabitation and intimate relationships are also lawful.
Historical Context
Historically, cousin marriages were more common and socially acceptable in many cultures, including parts of the United States. Over time, various states enacted laws either prohibiting or permitting marriages between first cousins based on genetic, cultural, or social considerations. Connecticut’s current legal stance reflects a permissive approach to first-cousin marriages, though this may change pending new legislation.
Conclusion
In summary, Connecticut law currently permits marriages between first cousins, and such unions are legally recognized without any special conditions or restrictions. However, proposed legislation seeks to prohibit these marriages in the future. As marriage laws vary significantly across states and may change over time, individuals considering such a union should consult the specific statutes of the state in question and may benefit from legal counsel to fully understand the implications.