‘Til Death Do Us Part? Temporary Marriage Legislation Introduced in Mexico

Marriage isn’t what it used to be. The honored tradition of a man and a woman vowing to love each other until death parts them, is so… ancient history. More and more places around the world are now allowing gay marriages and we could soon see cities, like Mexico City, allowing temporary marriage licenses.

Mexico City is currently mulling around the idea of a temporary marriage license. With half of marriages ending in divorce anyway in Mexico, a temporary marriage license could eliminate the hassle that comes with separation.

Leonel Luna, the Mexico City assemblyman who co-authored the bill, said that the minimum marriage contract would be two years. After the contract expires a couple could renew their vows or agree to go their separate ways.

Luna said:

“The proposal is, when the two-year period is up, if the relationship is not stable or harmonious, the contract simply ends… You wouldn’t have to go through the tortuous process of divorce.”

Reuters reports that the temporary marriage contract would include provisions on how to handle money, property, and children if the contract isn’t renewed. Luna says that his proposal is gaining momentum, although he admits that the church is less than supportive.

Hugo Valdemar, spokesman for the Mexican archdiocese, said:

“This reform is absurd. It contradicts the nature of marriage. It’s another one of these electoral theatrics the assembly tends to do that are irresponsible and immoral.”

What do you think? Is marriage a sacred bond that lasts until death? Or are the ideals attached to marriage outdated? Should people be able to get temporary marriage licences?