Lawmakers in Wisconsin want to eliminate the waiting period to remarry after a divorce

Lawmakers in Wisconsin are considering legislation that would eliminate the state’s required waiting period between a divorce and a new marriage.

 

Currently, recently-divorced individuals must wait 6 months after their divorce judgment is granted to get married again.

 

If the measure passes (Senate Bill 288), however, an individual would be able to apply for a new marriage license immediately after having their divorce granted. 

 

Why does this matter? Marriage is a spiritual union, but it’s also a practical one. This change could benefit couples who need or want to marry quickly following the end of a previous marriage (such as for access to insurance benefits, child care needs, housing, or other personal reasons). 

 

Related: Wisconsin Officiant Government Registration Requirements

 

This change might also make it easier for couples to plan a wedding ceremony and book a wedding officiant, by removing limitations on potential wedding dates. Couples who divorce in the fall or winter will be able to book an off-season wedding right away, instead of having to compete for venues and vendors in the busier spring and summer seasons.

 

Only a few states have a mandatory waiting period between a divorce and remarriage, including Alabama, Kansas, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin. 

 

Related: Can you get married without a marriage license? What if you lost it? Or forgot it?

 

Of these, Wisconsin’s is one of the longest – only two states have equally long waiting periods, Nebraska and Oklahoma. 

 

Senate Bill 288 was introduced May 15th, 2023, and has been referred to Committee for review. It has four primary sponsors, Senators Joan Ballweg, Mary Felzkowski,  Kelda Roys, and Lena Taylor.

 

Read the full bill text here: WI SB288 2023
 

 

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Conviértete en un Oficiante de Bodas en Wisconsin
 

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How to Get Married in Wisconsin:

Planning a wedding in The Badger State
 

A step-by-step guide to getting married in Wisconsin, from finding the best wedding officiant and choosing a wedding venue, to how to apply for, sign, and return your Wisconsin marriage license to the County Clerk office.

 

• Read the full article here. 

 

 

Find the perfect wedding officiant, apply for your marriage license, and get married in Wisconsin!

 

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