It could take longer for a married couple to get a divorce in North Carolina. Instead of a one year waiting period, three senators have introduced a bill -- the Healthy Marriage Act -- that will change it to two years.
In addition to waiting an extra year to be divorced, a couple would have to complete courses on improving communication skills and conflict resolution. These courses would not have to be completed together.
The Healthy Marriage Act would also require completion of a course that’s at least four hours on the impact of divorce on children. Other changes include allowing a couple to live together during their two year waiting period.
Republican Senator Austin Allran of Hickory is the primary sponsor of the bill, which was filed Thursday.