The cost for a marriage license in Alabama is going up beginning Jan. 1.

Escambia County Probate Judge Doug Agerton said.

The law, which was passed this legislative session, defines domestic violence protection and penalties for those committing the crime, also implements a fee increase for marriage licenses statewide from $30 to $60 at the start of the New Year.

“Some counties may have also passed local laws that affect the cost of obtaining or filing a marriage license, but in Escambia County, it will cost $60,” Agerton said. “We used to charge $40 for ours, but now, like everyone else we have to implement the increase.”

The additional $30 per license generated statewide will help to fund the Domestic Violence Trust Fund, which provides funding for domestic violence centers in the state. As part of the law implementing the funding increase, funds will also be used to establish a certified domestic violence center capital improvement grant program through the state’s department of economic and community affairs.