Marriage between cousins is a topic that often raises questions about legality, cultural acceptance, and family dynamics. In the United States, the rules regarding cousin marriage vary widely from state to state. Here’s a detailed look at what Alaska law says about marrying your cousin.
Is Cousin Marriage Legal in Alaska?
Yes, it is legal to marry your first cousin in Alaska. State law specifically prohibits marriage between individuals who are more closely related than first cousins, but first cousins themselves are not included in this prohibition. This means that first cousins, as well as more distant cousins (such as second, third, or fourth cousins), are allowed to legally marry in Alaska.
What Does the Law Say?
Alaska Statute AS 25.05.021(2) states that marriages are prohibited between people “more closely related than first cousins.” This means:
- Siblings and half-siblings cannot marry.
- Parent-child, aunt/uncle-niece/nephew, and grandparent-grandchild marriages are strictly prohibited.
- First cousins and more distant relatives (first cousins once removed, second cousins, etc.) are permitted to marry.
This legal stance is reflected in the official Alaska marriage license application, which asks both parties if there is any blood relationship and explicitly notes that “Alaska law prohibits marriages between two people more closely related than first cousins”.
Marriage License Application Process
When applying for a marriage license in Alaska, both parties must answer whether they are blood-related. If you are first cousins, you should answer “yes” to this question. However, this does not disqualify you from obtaining a marriage license, as the law only prohibits marriages between closer relatives.
The application also asks whether there is any legal reason the marriage should not be solemnized. For first cousins, the answer is “no,” as their relationship is not on the prohibited list.
Types of Cousin Relationships Allowed
Alaska law is clear that all types of cousins can legally marry, including:
- First cousins
- First cousins once removed
- Half first cousins
- Second cousins and beyond
The only restriction is for relationships closer than first cousins, such as siblings or half-siblings, which are not permitted to marry under any circumstances.
How Does Alaska Compare to Other States?
The United States has a patchwork of laws regarding cousin marriage:
- 24 states prohibit first cousin marriages.
- 18 states, including Alaska, allow first cousin marriages.
- Some states allow cousin marriage only under specific conditions, such as age or infertility.
Alaska’s approach is relatively permissive compared to many other states, where cousin marriage may be criminalized or voided.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
While the law allows first cousins to marry in Alaska, some religious institutions, such as the Roman Catholic Church, may have their own requirements or restrictions. Couples seeking a religious ceremony should consult with their faith leaders for guidance.
Key Takeaways
- First cousin marriage is legal in Alaska.
- The law prohibits marriage only between relatives closer than first cousins (e.g., siblings, parent-child, uncle-niece).
- The marriage license application requires disclosure of blood relationship, but first cousins are not disqualified.
- All types of cousins, including first, second, and more distant, can legally marry in Alaska.
- Alaska is among the minority of U.S. states that permit first cousin marriage without restriction.
If you are considering marrying your cousin in Alaska, you can do so legally, provided you are not more closely related than first cousins. Always check for the latest legal requirements and, if relevant, consult with your religious community for additional guidance.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-alaska/
- https://d2l2jhoszs7d12.cloudfront.net/state/Alaska/Court%20System/httpwww.courts.alaska.gov/Vital%20Statistics/Marriage_License.pdf
- https://health.alaska.gov/media/twypr0fp/marriage_license.pdf
- https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-alaska/
