Relating to marriage license requirements by requiring premarriage legal counseling

Where it is now

1. ✓
   Done: IntroducedJanuary 28, 2026
2. ✓
   Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 29, 2026
3. ✕
   Stopped: Senate committeeDied when the General Assembly ended
4. Next: Passes the Senate
5. Next: House committeeFunnel: by March 20, 2026
6. Next: Passes the House
7. Next: To the Governor
8. Next: Signed into law

Died when the session ended The General Assembly adjourned on October 2, 2026. Bills that didn’t pass both chambers died. What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

This bill requires parties applying for a marriage license to complete one hour of premarriage legal counseling provided by an attorney. The bill directs the judicial branch, in consultation with a private legal organization representing lawyers in this state, to prescribe the content of the counseling, including basic legal information concerning common marriage, divorce, and child custody issues. A marriage license will not be issued unless the parties submit documentation confirming completion of the required counseling.

From the explanation printed with the bill as introduced, written by the Legislative Services Agency. Amendments adopted later aren’t reflected. Full bill text

Senate subcommittee

Named January 29, 2026. It hasn’t reported yet.

• Sen. Jesse Green REmail
• Sen. Tony Bisignano DEmail
• Sen. Scott Webster REmail

Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part

Iowa Code it changes

Amends§595.3

Read from the bill as introduced. Each links to every bill touching that chapter of the Iowa Code. How the Code works