As of April 2025, it is currently legal to marry your first cousin in Tennessee, but that is likely about to change. Here’s what the law says and the latest developments:
Current Law
- First cousin marriage is legal in Tennessee. There has been no explicit statutory ban, and Tennessee is among the states that permit marriage between first cousins with no restrictions.
- The law prohibits marriage between closer relatives (such as siblings, parents, children, aunts/uncles, and nieces/nephews), but first cousins have not been included in this prohibition under current statutes.
Legislative Changes Underway
- In April 2024, the Tennessee House passed a bill that would make it illegal for first cousins to marry. The bill closes what lawmakers described as a loophole and specifically prohibits marriage between “lineal descendants of a grandparent,” which includes first cousins.
- The bill passed the House with overwhelming support and is now awaiting the governor’s signature to become law.
- If signed by the governor, first cousin marriage will become illegal in Tennessee. Until the governor signs the bill, the current law allowing first cousin marriage remains in effect45.
Table
| Can First Cousins Marry? | Status in Tennessee (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Legally permitted | Yes (but a ban is imminent) |
| Pending legislation | Ban passed House, awaiting Governor’s signature |
Key Takeaway
- Right now, it is legal to marry your first cousin in Tennessee, but a new law banning such marriages is expected to take effect soon. If the governor signs the bill, first cousin marriage will become illegal in the state.
For the most current status, check whether the governor has signed the bill into law.
Sources
- https://www.ctas.tennessee.edu/eli/who-can-marry
- https://theamm.org/articles/2046-if-you-want-to-marry-your-cousin-in-tennessee-you-d-better-do-it-fast
- https://abc3340.com/news/nation-world/tennessee-house-passes-bill-banning-first-cousin-marriages-after-spirited-debate-politics
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtSDBjrl4pc
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zJ3uktKfUo