The proposed "Missouri Covenant Marriage Act" amends the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding sections 451.055 and 452.055, allowing couples to opt for a covenant marriage. This option requires couples to declare their intent on their marriage license application and meet specific criteria, including a commitment to seek counseling during marital difficulties. The covenant marriage license will be recognized legally and will require couples to undergo at least 40 hours of marital counseling before a dissolution can be granted, with a legal separation required prior to filing for dissolution. The act also outlines limited grounds for dissolution, such as adultery, substance abuse, or domestic violence, and mandates that the state provide information about covenant marriages on its official website. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for filing petitions for dissolution of marriage, allowing a party to file if their spouse has abandoned the matrimonial domicile for at least two years. If the abandonment period is not met at the time of filing, the dissolution action will be stayed until the requirement is fulfilled. Couples can also file for dissolution after living separately for two years, with similar stipulations regarding the stay of action. A new ground for dissolution is established based on attending at least forty hours of marital counseling over two years, emphasizing the necessity of reconciliation efforts before divorce proceedings can commence.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (4183H.01): 451.055, 452.055