In Wyoming, it is illegal for first cousins to marry. The state law explicitly prohibits marriages between first cousins, but more distant cousins, such as first cousins once removed and beyond, are allowed to marry.
Wyoming Cousin Marriage Law Details
- Wyoming law forbids marriage between persons related as first cousins, whether by whole or half blood.
- The prohibition has been in place since the 1860s and does not have exceptions based on age or genetic counseling.
- Marriages between first cousins once removed (e.g., the child of a first cousin) and second cousins are legal in Wyoming.
- The state marriage application form does not specifically ask about cousin relationships; however, signing the form involves affirming no legal impediment, meaning marrying a first cousin would be prohibited by law.
- Wyoming also prohibits marriage between closer relatives such as siblings, half-siblings, uncles/nieces, and aunts/nephews.
Broader Context
- Wyoming is one of the states that strictly bans first cousin marriages outright without exceptions. Nearby states like Colorado allow cousin marriage, but neighboring states have varying rules.
- Marriages legal in other states may not be recognized if entered into in Wyoming when prohibited by its laws.
Summary
| Relationship Type | Marriage Legal in Wyoming? |
|---|---|
| First cousins | No |
| First cousins once removed | Yes |
| Second cousins | Yes |
| Siblings, half-siblings | No |
| Uncle/niece, aunt/nephew | No |
In conclusion, marrying your first cousin in Wyoming is illegal, but marrying more distant cousins is allowed by law.
Sources
(https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-wyoming/)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States)
(https://11points.com/11-state-laws-marrying-cousins-strictest-loosest/)
(https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title20.pdf)
(https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/cousin-marriage-laws.html)
