What are Iowa DUers' thought on this?
http://www.kcrg.com/article.aspx?art_id=80810&cat_id=123Bill Requires Counseling for Quicker Marriage License
Wednesday, April 21, 2004, 11:12:25 PM
(Des Moines-AP) -- Couples planning to marry in Iowa may have to add one more task to their months of wedding planning Ð counseling sessions.
Iowa couples who get counseling would receive their marriage license after a three-day waiting period under a bill passed by lawmakers. Without it, the bride and groom would have to wait 20 days.
Senator Neal Schuerer, a Republican from Amana, says the legislation could reduce the divorce rate by five percent.
Opponents say the legislation has the effect of religious discrimination because people who belong to a church would get the counseling free. Others would have to pay a counselor.
Under the bill, couples also would be required to file a parenting plan if they choose to divorce or separate.
Governor Vilsack is reviewing the bill and has 30 days to either sign or veto the measure.
Copyright The Associated Press