Topeka ? The Kansas House has approved a measure that would waive a $69 marriage fee for couples who can prove they can’t afford it.

The House passed the bill Thursday.

State Rep. Joe Patton, a Republican from Topeka, says he introduced the bill to help ensure that state policy helps build strong Kansas families.

Under the legislation, couples who can’t pay the fee will need to file a poverty affidavit to have the fee waived.