WorldLegislation

California becomes eighteenth American state to outlaw child marriage

Published 15h ago · Updated 5h ago

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California has become the eighteenth US state to completely outlaw child marriage.

California has enacted a complete ban on child marriage by setting the minimum age for marriage and domestic partnerships at eighteen. Signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the legislation will take effect at the start of next year. Advocacy organisations welcomed the move, highlighting that underage marriage remained legally permitted in numerous other American states.

The new law establishes eighteen as the absolute minimum age for entering into marriage or domestic partnerships in the state.
The legislation is scheduled to officially take effect on January 1, 2027.
Child marriage remains legal in thirty-two other US states.

By the numbers

18US states that ban child marriage

32US states where child marriage remains legal

Why it matters

Child marriage has faced increasing scrutiny from human rights advocates who argue that underage nuptials compromise minors' autonomy, education, and long-term well-being.

What outlets agree on

Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation that sets eighteen as the minimum age for marriage and domestic partnerships in California.

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In this story

CaliforniaHuman rightsGavin NewsomChildren

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