In Minnesota, the law regarding cousin marriages is clear: marriages between first cousins are prohibited. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the relationship is by whole or half-blood or created by adoption.
However, there is an exception for certain aboriginal cultures, where such marriages may be allowed according to established customs.
Legal Background
Minnesota Statutes Section 517.03 explicitly lists the types of marriages that are prohibited, including marriages between first cousins. The state allows marriages between second cousins, but not between first cousins, unless it falls under the exception for aboriginal cultures.
Proposed Legislation
In the past, there have been attempts to change this law. For example, in 2003, a bill was proposed to legalize marriages between first cousins, citing cultural and genetic factors. However, this bill did not become law, and the prohibition remains in place.
Cultural Considerations
Culturally, cousin marriages are more common in some communities. For instance, in Hmong culture, marrying cousins is sometimes seen as a way to unify families. However, Minnesota’s laws do not accommodate these cultural practices for first cousins outside of specific aboriginal customs.
Genetic Risks
One of the concerns with cousin marriages is the increased risk of genetic disorders in offspring. While some argue that these risks are not as significant as once thought, the law in Minnesota reflects a cautious approach2.
marrying your first cousin in Minnesota is illegal unless it is part of an aboriginal culture’s established customs. Second cousins, however, are allowed to marry. The state’s laws reflect a balance between cultural considerations and concerns about genetic risks.
Key Points:
- First Cousin Marriages: Prohibited in Minnesota, except for certain aboriginal cultures.
- Second Cousin Marriages: Allowed in Minnesota.
- Genetic Risks: Increased risk of genetic disorders in offspring from cousin marriages.
- Cultural Considerations: Some cultures view cousin marriages as beneficial for family unity.
- Legal Exceptions: Aboriginal cultures may have different rules based on their customs.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://jssmn.com/civil-marriage/
[2] https://mndaily.com/235238/not-using/politics/proposed-bill-would-legalize-first-cousin-marriages/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
[4] https://www.insideedition.com/gallery/kissing-cousins-states-where-marrying-your-relative-legal-48234
[5] https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/2015/cite/517.03
