UPDATE: Bill hikes marriage fees unless couples take class

A Republican state lawmaker is facing tough questions about her proposal to quadruple fees on marriage licenses and certificates unless couples complete marriage preparation classes.

Under the bill, couples who complete premarital classes would pay the standard $18 fee for a marriage license and certificate. But couples that don't take a course would pay $72. Bill sponsor Rep. Cindy Noe, R-Indianapolis, said marriage preparation classes would strengthen Indiana families and help prevent family fragmentation.

"This would be a real milestone and a real help," she said. "It would have long-term benefits."

The House committee Noe chairs discussed the proposal Wednesday, but lawmakers raised concerns about the proposal, which they could vote on as early as next week. Rep. Vanessa Summers, D-Indianapolis, raised the chief question of many critics who find it ironic that Republicans, who often want little interference from the government, would propose such a bill.

"Don't you think this is government intrusion?" she asked.

Noe said there was a critical need for healthy relationships in Indiana, and that divorce leads to other problems and hurts children. Vivian Finnell, who leads a faith-based advocacy group against domestic violence called Not To Believers Like Us, said something had to be done.

"This would be a positive intrusion," she said.

Rep. Wes Culver, R-Goshen, said the bill had good intentions, but he was concerned with government telling churches what should be taught in their marriage classes.

"It's 90 percent good," he said. "It's 1 percent government getting their foot in the door."

Under the proposal, out-of-state couples who get married in Indiana would pay the current $60 fee if they both took a course or $90 if they don't take it. Those under 18 who want to get married in Indiana would be required to take the classes.

The state would require classes to be at least eight hours long and cover topics such as communication skills, conflict resolution and parenting responsibilities. Courses could be taught by therapists, social workers, clergy members or others outlined in the bill.

Many churches currently offer such classes for free, though some organizations and companies charge fees for the classes, which can be offered in person, online or through other means.

Noe said she was still working on some of the proposal's specifics and could make changes to the bill next week. Rep. John Day, D-Indianapolis, questioned why Noe didn't simply require all couples to take premarital classes before their wedding day.

Noe said that would be a little too much intrusion, though she said that would also help couples develop stronger marriages.

"I think it would have really good results," she said.