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House approves optional $20 premarital counseling discount; supporters call it prevention, opponents decry government in private life
Summary
On March 7 the House passed First Substitute Senate Bill 54, which creates an opt-in $20 discount on marriage licenses for couples who complete premarital counseling (counties and couples opt in); sponsors said it could reduce divorce and public costs, while opponents warned of government intrusion.
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah House on March 7 approved First Substitute Senate Bill 54, a measure that would allow counties with online marriage-license systems to offer an opt-in $20 discount to couples who receive premarital counseling or education.
Representative Edwards, the sponsor, said the program is voluntary for both counties and couples and argued it could reduce divorces and save public money. "It's an opt in for counties. It's an opt in for couples, and it's an opt in for you right now to vote yes on the bill," Edwards told the chamber.
Under the bill as explained on the floor, counties that already offer an online license could provide a lower base fee;…
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