Connecticut Bans First-Cousin Marriages Starting Oct. 1

Written by Lexx Thornton

A new law in Connecticut is expected to go into effect on Oct. 1, banning first-cousin marriages. Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers agreed on the bill earlier this year. According to officials, procreation between first cousins can increase the chance of birth defects. “It’s just so wrong because of the birth defects,” Rocky Hill resident Joanna Purcaro said. 

State law already bans people from marrying a parent, grandparent, sibling, or child. Tom Kelly, whose sister was getting married on Friday, reflected on the new law. “That’s pretty wild. I would never have thought about marrying my first cousin. Didn’t really enter my mind, but whatever floats your boat,” Kelly said. 

“Different strokes for different folks. But it’s going to mess up the DNA a little bit if you start crossing and mixing those wires,” he added. 

In over 15 other states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont, people can still marry their first cousin. 

US States That Allow 1st Cousin Marriages: 

Alabama 

Alaska 

California 

Colorado 

District of Columbia 

Florida 

Georgia 

Hawaii 

Maryland 

Massachusetts 

New Jersey 

New Mexico 

New York 

North Carolina (with the exception of double first cousins, who share all four grandparents) 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina 

Vermont 

Virginia