Bill > SB724

This bill establishes procedures for "covenant marriages," which are defined as lifelong commitments between one man and one woman who have received counseling on the nature and responsibilities of marriage. Couples wishing to enter a covenant marriage must declare their intent on their marriage license application and sign a declaration of intent, which includes a statement affirming their understanding that the marriage is for life and their commitment to preserve it. Existing married couples in Oklahoma can also designate their marriage as a covenant marriage by filing a declaration of intent. The bill also modifies divorce procedures, particularly for covenant marriages, requiring a minimum of six hours of counseling before a divorce can be granted on the grounds of incompatibility, with a waiting period of at least one year after counseling completion, though waivers are possible under certain circumstances. The bill also updates marriage license requirements to include information about covenant marriage designation and premarital counseling hours.