Effective September 1, the state of Texas has adopted a new healthy marriage law. The cost of the state fee for a marriage license will double from the current $30 to $60. Additionally, the county charges a fee which differs from county to county but typically is around $11-$12.

In conjunction with this cost increase the state has launched the “Twogether in Texas” initiative as an incentive for couples not yet married to take a free premarital education course. The course is funded with $16 million in federal monies to promote healthy marriages and reduce the frequency of divorce.  It will provide couples contemplating marriage with the tools they need to manage the challenges inherent in relationships.

Classes will be taught around the state and will include eight hours of training focusing on communication skills, conflict resolution and the elements of a healthy marriage. The free classes will be open to all couples – those who are seriously dating, engaged to be married or those who have been married any length of time.

Those that complete the course will not have to pay the state fee for a marriage license. (Note: You will still be required to pay the county’s portion of the marriage license fee.) They also will be able to forgo the 72-hour waiting period before getting married.

For more information on where to find one of these free classes go to the Texas Health and Human Services site for a list of regional intermediaries.