In Massachusetts, the law allows cousins to marry, making it one of the states where cousin marriage is legal. While many states in the U.S. have specific restrictions on marrying cousins, Massachusetts does not have such prohibitions. The state does not consider cousin marriage illegal unless certain other conditions apply, such as if either party is already married or if there is a close blood relation between the individuals, such as in the case of siblings or half-siblings.
However, it’s important to note that while cousin marriage is legal, it might still come with some social stigma depending on the area. Public opinion may vary, but legally, Massachusetts does not restrict individuals from marrying their cousins.
The state’s laws primarily focus on preventing marriages between close relatives like siblings, parents, and children, which are prohibited for reasons related to potential genetic risks and public health concerns. But first cousins, who share a more distant genetic link, are not affected by these rules in Massachusetts.
It’s also worth noting that Massachusetts requires a marriage license to marry, and both parties must be at least 18 years old. Other requirements, like proof of divorce if previously married, still apply, but these are unrelated to the cousin relationship itself. If you are considering marriage to a cousin, it’s important to check other state-specific laws related to marriage licenses to ensure compliance with all requirements.
It is legal to marry your cousin in Massachusetts. The state does not have laws banning cousin marriages, and such unions are legally recognized. However, while it is permitted by law, individuals should still consider any societal views and ensure they meet all other legal requirements when applying for a marriage license.
Sources
[1] https://wbsm.com/massachusetts-first-cousins-marry/
[2] https://wokq.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-first-cousin-in-new-england/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
[4] https://www.reneelazarlaw.com/blog/2024/03/can-people-who-live-in-massachusetts-legally-marry-their-first-cousin/
[5] https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-marriage
