First cousin marriages to be banned in this state starting next month

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB/Gray News) - A new law in Connecticut is expected to go into effect on Oct. 1, banning first-cousin marriages.

Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers agreed on the bill earlier this year.

According to officials, procreation between first cousins can increase the chance of birth defects.

“It’s just so wrong because of the birth defects,” Rocky Hill resident Joanna Purcaro said.

State law already bans people from marrying a parent, grandparent, sibling, and child.

Tom Kelly, whose sister was getting married on Friday, reflected on the new law.

“That’s pretty wild. I would never have thought about marrying my first cousin. Didn’t really enter my mind, but whatever floats your boat,” Kelly said.

“Different strokes for different folks. But it’s going to mess up the DNA a little bit if you start crossing and mixing those wires,” he added.

In over 15 other states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont, people can still marry their first cousin.

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