Sec. 1. Marriage is inherently a unique relationship between a man and a woman. As a matter of public policy, this state has a special interest in encouraging, supporting, and protecting that unique relationship in order to promote, among other goals, the stability and welfare of society and its children. A marriage contracted between individuals of the same sex is invalid in this state.

History: Add. 1996, Act 324, Imd. Eff. June 26, 1996 .

Compiler's Note: Former § 551.1, which pertained to allowable age for contracting marriage, was repealed by Act 37 of 1951 , Eff. Sept. 28, 1951.