Gov Gavin Newsom called it a "long overdue measure to protect young Californians".

California has officially banned child marriage, with Governor Gavin Newsom signing legislation to end the practice that is still legal in 32 US states.

The new law, which will come into effect on 1 January, states people must be 18 to get married in the Golden State.

Newsom called it a “long overdue measure to protect young Californians and minors”. He signed the bill into law with Courtney Stodden, whose parents allowed her to marry a 50-year-old Hollywood actor when she was just 16.

  • dogslayeggs@lemmy.world
    42·
    2 days ago

    I understand both orgs’ stances, honestly. I don’t think I fully agree with them, but if two 17 year old kids want to marry and have supportive parents, then I’m OK with that. Two 14 year old kids? I’m not OK with that. A 17 and 16 year old? I’m probably not OK with it but could keep an open mind. Not all underage marriages are sex slavery or pregnancy traps or arranged marriages or other harmful situations. The issue is there is not enough white area, too much black area, and very subjective grey area. There is more harm in allowing it and not enough good.

    I’m glad CA changed their laws, but I do understand the arguments against it.