In Kentucky, it is illegal to marry your first cousin. State law explicitly prohibits marriages between individuals who are “nearer of kin to each other by consanguinity, whether of the whole or half-blood, than second cousins”. This means:
- First cousin marriages are not allowed.
- Marriages between first cousins once removed are also prohibited.
- Marriages between second cousins are uniquely banned in Kentucky, making the state one of the strictest in the nation on this issue.
Legal Consequences
Attempting to marry your first cousin in Kentucky is more than just a paperwork issue-it is considered a misdemeanor. Such marriages are classified as “incestuous and void,” meaning they have no legal standing. Violators may face legal penalties, including fines or jail time.
Recognition of Out-of-State Cousin Marriages
Kentucky does not recognize cousin marriages performed in other states where such unions are legal. If a couple marries as first cousins elsewhere and moves to Kentucky, the marriage will not be considered valid under Kentucky law.
Historical and Legislative Context
Kentucky’s strict stance on cousin marriage dates back to a 1946 revision of its marriage laws. Recent legislative proposals have not changed this prohibition, and any attempts to remove cousins from the list of prohibited relationships have been quickly corrected.
Comparison to Neighboring States
- Virginia allows first cousin marriages.
- Illinois and Indiana allow cousin marriages under certain conditions, such as age or proof of sterility.
- Tennessee banned cousin marriages as of April 2024.
Summary Table: Kentucky’s Cousin Marriage Law
| Relationship | Legal to Marry in Kentucky? | Marriage Recognized if Performed Elsewhere? |
|---|---|---|
| First cousin | No | No |
| First cousin once removed | No | No |
| Second cousin | No | No |
| More distant relatives | Yes | Yes |
It is illegal to marry your cousin in Kentucky. The law bars marriage between first cousins, first cousins once removed, and even second cousins. Such marriages are void, considered incestuous, and can result in legal penalties. Kentucky also does not recognize cousin marriages performed in other states.
Sources:
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/cousin-marriage-legal-kentucky-210000676.html
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/01/17/kentucky-nick-wilson-incest-law-first-cousins/72262615007/
- https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=36465
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-kentucky-heres-what-the-law-says/