Bills › 91st General Assembly
Relating to marriage license requirements by requiring premarriage legal counseling
Sponsored by Sen. Jesse Green (R)
Topics:Courts & civil law
Where it is now
- Done: IntroducedJanuary 28, 2026
- Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 29, 2026
- Stopped: Senate committeeDied when the General Assembly ended
- Next: Passes the Senate
- Next: House committeeFunnel: by March 20, 2026
- Next: Passes the House
- Next: To the Governor
- Next: Signed into law
Died when the session ended The 2026 session adjourned on May 3, 2026, the General Assembly’s last regular session. Bills that didn’t pass both chambers died. What’s a funnel?
What’s in it
AI summary People applying for a marriage license in Iowa would have to complete one hour of legal counseling with an attorney. This training would cover basic information about marriage, divorce, and child custody. Couples must show proof that they finished the session before they can receive their license.1
Read the official explanation
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.
Senate subcommittee
Named January 29, 2026. It hasn’t reported yet.
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