Marriage Laws


Resolution Adopted by the CCAR

MARRIAGE LAWS

Digests of resolutions adopted by the

Central Conference of American Rabbis

between 1889 and 1974

1. In view of the fact that increasing laxities in the marital relationship

are awakening

greatest alarm and is becoming a matter of deep concern for the preservation

of the

sanctity of the American home,

And in view of the fact that this evil is to a large extent due to the laxity

and

diversity of marriage and divorce laws in the different states of our

country,

And in view of the fact that active measures are being taken by various

organizations

of our country in bringing about the introduction of more vigorous and uniform

laws

on marriage and divorce,

Be it resolved, That the Central Conference of American Rabbis, guided by its

knowledge

that the preservation of Israel during all the ages of its persecution was to

a very

large extent due to the sanctity of the marital tie, endorses every effort

making

towards the safeguarding of the American home, and pledges its hearty support

towards

bringing about the desired legislation.

Your committee concurs in the recommendation of this resolution and favors a

uniform

national law to regulate marriage and divorce and endorses every legitimate

endeavor

made towards that end. (1906, p. 65)

2. The Conference favors a uniform national law to regulate marriage and

divorce and

endorses every legitimate endeavor made toward that end. (1906, p. 192)

3. Resolved, That the Central Conference of American Rabbis declare itself in

favor

of and pledge its support to legislation providing for a doctor’s certificate

prior

to the issuance of a marriage license. Moved as an amendment to the resolution

that

what was said last year on the subject be reaffirmed. (1913, p. 134)

4. We urge that a uniform law for all States be enacted providing for 1) An

interval

of seven days between time of application for marriage license and the issuing

thereof,

except in emergency. 2) A thorough examination by a physician. 3) An

elementary course in problems of marriage and family life. (1935, p. 76)