Florida Governor Calls for Ban on Cousin Marriage

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During a bill signing event on Monday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called on state legislators to pass a law banning first cousins from getting married in the state. Currently, Florida is one of 16 states that place no restrictions on cousin marriages, despite most other states having such bans in place.

Why it matters

The governor's comments have sparked renewed debate over the issue of cousin marriage, which some view as a public health concern due to increased risks of genetic disorders, while others argue it's a personal freedom. The potential legislation would bring Florida in line with the majority of states that prohibit these types of marriages.

The details

While current Florida law prohibits incestuous marriages between siblings, parents, nieces, nephews, and grandparents, first cousins are not included on the list of prohibited relationships. During the event, DeSantis stated 'Florida doesn't ban cousin marriage... That's a hanging curveball for us to do. We need to do that. Other states have done it. I don't know why we wouldn't.' A previous bill, HB 733, had sought to add first cousins to the list of prohibited marriages, but it ultimately died after the legislative deadline passed.

• On April 7, 2026, Governor DeSantis called for a ban on cousin marriages during a bill signing event in Tampa.
• In December 2025, a bill (HB 733) was filed in the Florida legislature that would have prohibited first cousin marriages, but it did not pass.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Lawmakers in Florida will need to return to the state capitol this month to pass a budget, and the governor has also called a special session on redistricting starting on April 20. It remains to be seen if legislation to ban first cousin marriages will be introduced and considered during these upcoming legislative sessions.