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Does failure to conduct sickle cell anemia test prior to marriage invalidate the marriage?

Does failure to conduct sickle cell anemia test prior to marriage invalidate the marriage?

Q: Do any states still require blood tests for marriage?

Yes, some states still have blood test requirements for marriage licenses, though these laws are becoming less common. States like Montana and New York have specific tests, such as for sickle cell anemia, while others have removed such requirements entirely. Always check your local laws for the most current information.

Q: Do you still need a blood test to get married in the USA?

The requirement for blood tests to obtain a marriage license varies by state. While some states have eliminated this requirement, others may still mandate specific tests, such as for sickle cell anemia. It's essential to check your state's regulations to determine if a blood test is necessary.

Full question:

I got married last year but neither me nor my husband took the test for sickle cell anemia before getting our marriage license. Will this affect the legality of our marriage?

Category: Marriage
Date: 04/07/2025
State: New York

Answer:

In New York, it is required that an applicant for a marriage license who is not of Caucasian, Indian or Oriental race should take the test for sickle cell anemia. However the failure to take the test by itself will not invalidate an otherwise valid marriage. The law is stated in N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law § 13-aa that reads:

“1. On and after the effective date of this act,1 such test as may be necessary shall be given to each applicant for a marriage license who is not of the Caucasian, Indian or Oriental race for the purposes of discovering the existence of sickle cell anemia and notifying the applicant of the results of such test.
2. No application for a marriage license shall be denied solely on the ground that such test proves positive, nor shall the absence of such test invalidate a marriage.
3. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any person who refuses to take such test because of his religious beliefs.”

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Do you have to give blood when you get married?

In some states, blood tests may be required before obtaining a marriage license, but this is becoming less common. For example, New York does not require blood tests for marriage, but it does require certain applicants to take a sickle cell anemia test. Always check your state's specific requirements to ensure compliance.

Why do they ask about syphilis for a marriage license?

Historically, some states required blood tests for syphilis to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections. However, many states have eliminated this requirement. In New York, for instance, there are no longer any blood test requirements for marriage licenses, but applicants may still need to take specific tests like the sickle cell anemia test.

Do any states still require blood tests for marriage?

Do you still need a blood test to get married in the USA?

What can stop you from getting a marriage license?

Several factors can prevent you from obtaining a marriage license, including failing to meet age requirements, not providing necessary identification, or not complying with state-specific health tests. In New York, for instance, certain applicants must take a sickle cell anemia test, and refusal could impact the licensing process.

Why did they stop blood tests for marriage?

Many states have eliminated blood test requirements for marriage licenses due to changes in public health policy and the recognition that such tests may not significantly impact public health. The focus has shifted towards education and awareness rather than mandatory testing. However, some states still require specific tests, like sickle cell anemia in New York.