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TX HB931

Bill

Status

Introduced

11/12/2024

Primary Sponsor

Cody Vasut

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates a new "covenant marriage" option in Texas where couples submit a signed, notarized affidavit declaring marriage is a lifelong commitment and agreeing to seek counseling during marital difficulties

  • Requires couples to complete at least 5 hours of premarital counseling from a clergy member or licensed counselor at least 7 days before entering a covenant marriage, covering topics including financial issues, conflict resolution, and the seriousness of the commitment

  • Allows existing married couples to convert their marriage to a covenant marriage by filing a notarized affidavit and copy of their marriage license with the county clerk

  • Restricts divorce on grounds of insupportability (no-fault divorce) for covenant marriages to cases where both parties agree and have completed at least 5 hours of reconciliation counseling from a clergy member or licensed therapist

  • Prohibits county clerks from charging fees for covenant marriage licenses, while maintaining the $60 fee for standard ("noncovenant") marriage licenses; requires the Attorney General to develop educational materials for county clerks about covenant marriage requirements

Legislative Description

Relating to the creation and dissolution of a covenant marriage.

County Government

Last Action

Referred to s/c on Family & Fiduciary Relationships by Speaker

3/6/2025

Committee Referrals

Family & Fiduciary Relationships Subcommittee3/6/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available