Missouri has taken a significant step forward in protecting minors by passing legislation that raises the minimum marriage age to 18, effectively banning child marriage in the state. Previously, 16- and 17-year-olds could marry with parental consent. The new law eliminates this exception, ensuring that all individuals must be legal adults to enter into marriage.

The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support in the Missouri Senate, passing with a 32-1 vote. It was championed by Democratic Senator Tracy McCreery and Republican Senator Rick Brattin, who emphasized the importance of aligning the state's laws with modern standards and protecting minors from potential exploitation.

Advocates for the bill highlighted the risks associated with child marriage, including increased chances of mental and physical health issues, social isolation, poverty, and intimate partner abuse. They argued that the previous law left minors vulnerable to coercion and abuse under the guise of marriage.

This legislative change reflects Missouri's commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of its youth, joining a growing number of states that have enacted similar bans on child marriage.