Tennessee Legislature Passes Bill Banning First-Cousin Marriages

The bill, now awaiting Governor Bill Lee's decision, aims to close a legal loophole from 1829 allowing such marriages.

The Tennessee House voted 75-2 to pass a bill prohibiting marriages between first cousins, sending it to Governor Bill Lee for approval.
Democratic Rep. Darren Jernigan sponsored the bill, which removes outdated language from a 1829 law, effectively banning first-cousin marriages.
Republican Rep. Gino Bulso opposed the bill, arguing it violates the 2015 Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage rights.
The legislation has sparked debate over public health concerns and genetic risks associated with first-cousin marriages.
While Tennessee moves to ban these marriages, first-cousin marriage remains legal in several other U.S. states.