FIRST ON THE DAILY SIGNAL — Rep. Keith Self has introduced legislation that would effectively outlaw cousin marriages by denying federal recognition and benefits to such unions.
“Cousin marriage—which is permitted under Sharia—is fundamentally incompatible with American culture and values. It should not be allowed anywhere in our country,” the Texas Republican told The Daily Signal. “The vast majority of states have already banned this third‑world practice. It’s time for Congress to finish the job and enact a nationwide prohibition.”
Marriage between close family members is legal, with few or no restrictions, in 18 states and the District of Columbia. Self argues that blood‑related marriages are common in certain ethnic and cultural groups, with rates reaching as high as 40%.
“The expectation of assimilation into Western values includes accepting America’s cultural marriage standards,” Self said.
If enacted, the Consanguineous Marriage Prohibition Act would deny federal benefit recognition of marriages between individuals who are first cousins or more closely related. The bill would alter benefit calculations under Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Medicare, Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. It would also affect federal employees’ life and health insurance benefits.
The legislation would not alter broader legal definitions of marriage.
In a press release shared with The Daily Signal, Self said cousin marriages pose serious health risks to children born from such unions.
“Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) studies have shown that children of these marriages have twice the incidence of birth defects, and the risk of stillbirths and infant deaths is increased by 50%,” the release said. “Throughout their lives, these children experience learning disabilities, health issues, and reduced life expectancy.”
Self’s proposal comes after allegations that Rep. Ilhan Omar, D‑Minn., married her cousin to obtain immigration benefits and entry into the United States. Omar has denied the accusation, calling it a “ridiculous lie.”
In January, Rep. Nancy Mace, R‑S.C., subpoenaed Omar and her alleged “brother‑husband” as part of an effort to determine whether Omar committed immigration fraud or violated federal law.
“If these allegations are true, they raise grave concerns involving potential marriage fraud, immigration fraud, and violations of federal and state law,” Mace said at the time. “No one, no matter how politically protected, should be above the law.”
Omar did not respond to The Daily Signal’s request for comment.
