In a decisive move to protect minors, the Missouri Senate has passed legislation prohibiting marriage for individuals under 18 without exceptions.
This bipartisan effort reflects growing concerns about the implications of child marriage on health, education, and overall well-being.
Current Legal Framework and Proposed Changes
Under existing Missouri law, 16 and 17-year-olds can marry with parental consent, provided the other party is under 21.
The new bill seeks to eliminate these provisions, establishing 18 as the unequivocal minimum age for marriage. This change aligns Missouri with 12 other states that have enacted similar bans.
Legislative Journey and Advocacy
The bill, co-sponsored by Republican Senator Holly Thompson Rehder and Democratic Senator Lauren Arthur, garnered significant support in the Senate, passing with a 31-1 vote.
Senator Rehder, drawing from personal experience of marrying at 15, emphasized the potential harms of early marriage, including mental health challenges and limited opportunities. Senator Arthur highlighted that minors lack the legal capacity to engage in contracts, underscoring the necessity of this legislation.
Historical Context and Previous Attempts
Missouri’s history with child marriage laws has been contentious. In 2018, the state raised the minimum marriage age from 15 to 16, yet concerns persisted about the adequacy of protections for minors.
Last year, a similar bill passed the Senate but stalled in the House due to debates over governmental reach and parental rights. Advocates are optimistic that the current bill will successfully navigate the legislative process.
Implications of Child Marriage
Research indicates that individuals who marry before 18 face increased risks of mental and physical health issues, domestic violence, and economic instability.
By setting the marriage age at 18, Missouri aims to safeguard youth from these adverse outcomes and promote healthier developmental trajectories.
Next Steps
The bill now proceeds to the Missouri House of Representatives. Proponents are urging timely consideration to ensure the protection of minors and to align state laws with contemporary standards of child welfare.
The Missouri Senate’s approval of the child marriage ban signifies a pivotal step toward enhancing protections for minors.
As the bill moves to the House, continued advocacy and legislative action are crucial to enshrine these protections into law.