Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases the age to legally marry to 18 years old.

Highlights:

• Amends state law to change the eligibility to marry only if an individual is 18 years of age or not already married (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that those who are at least 16 years old may have a parent or legal guardian petition to obtain a marriage license and undergo a court hearing to decide if license will be granted (Sec. 1-3).

• Establishes that approval of a marriage license to a minor will only be granted if (Sec. 1-3):

• The parent or guardian consents to marriage;

• The minor consents to marriage with a full understanding of the nature and consequences of marriage;

• The minor has the capacity to consent to make such decision;

• The minor’s decision to marry is voluntary; and

• The marriage will not be of harm to the minor.

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases the age to legally marry to 18 years old.

Highlights:

• Amends state law to change the eligibility to marry only if an individual is 18 years of age or not already married (Sec. 1-3).

• Specifies that those who are at least 16 years old may have a parent or legal guardian petition to obtain a marriage license and undergo a court hearing to decide if license will be granted (Sec. 1-3).

• Establishes that approval of a marriage license to a minor will only be granted if (Sec. 1-3):

• The parent or guardian consents to marriage;

• The minor consents to marriage with a full understanding of the nature and consequences of marriage;

• The minor has the capacity to consent to make such decision;

• The minor’s decision to marry is voluntary; and

• The marriage will not be of harm to the minor.

Full Bill Text