California bans child marriage, a practice still legal in 32 US states

Child marriage is now banned in California, affecting young people's ability to marry before adulthood.

California has officially banned child marriage, with Governor Gavin Newsom signing legislation that prohibits anyone under 18 from marrying in the state. This new law, effective January 1, 2027, makes California the 18th state to ban the practice since 2018. Previously, California allowed marriage for minors with parental consent and a judge's approval, lacking specific divorce mechanisms for those under 18, which advocacy groups state led to thousands of girls being trapped in abusive relationships annually. The bill signing was supported by survivors of child marriage, like Courtney Stodden and Brittany Bee, who have been advocating for this change. Stodden described the ban as a "victory" and Bee stated it offers "hope for all children that they may be free from systemic violence."

California's legislative action signifies a growing national trend to close legal loopholes that have permitted child marriage, even in states with general age of majority laws. The ban addresses concerns raised by advocacy groups about forced marriages, lack of consent from minors, and subsequent abusive situations. This move by a major state like California could influence other states that still permit child marriage, potentially accelerating a broader legal shift across the country.

The impact extends beyond legal frameworks, highlighting the societal acknowledgment of child marriage as a form of systemic violence. Survivors' testimonies have been crucial in driving these legislative changes, emphasizing the need for protection and the right to self-determination for minors. The focus now shifts to enforcement and the ongoing efforts by advocacy groups to see similar bans enacted in all 50 states, ensuring greater protection for vulnerable youth nationwide.