JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri House is advancing a bill that would ban marriages of children ages 14 years old or younger.
House members gave the proposal initial approval in a voice vote Wednesday. It needs another vote to go to the Senate.
Under current law, children ages 15-17 can get married with permission from a parent. Those younger than 15 need approval from a judge.
Republican Rep. Jean Evans’ bill would require 15-17 year olds to get a judge’s approval following a court hearing. Children 14 years old or younger couldn’t get marriage licenses.
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The measure would also ban marriages if one partner is at least 21 years old and the other is younger than 17.
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Marriage age bill HB 1630 .