California Bans Child Marriage: 32 US States Still Allow It

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation banning child marriage in the state, making California the latest to prohibit the practice. The new law, which takes effect immediately, eliminates exceptions that previously allowed minors to marry with parental consent or judicial approval. Newsom called it a 'long overdue measure to protect young Californians.'

Child marriage remains legal in 32 US states, where loopholes often permit minors under 18 to wed with parental consent or a judge's approval. According to advocacy groups, thousands of minors marry each year in the United States, predominantly girls marrying adult men. California's ban follows similar moves in 17 other states and the District of Columbia, but efforts to outlaw the practice nationwide have stalled in Congress.

The ban is expected to face legal challenges from groups arguing it infringes on religious freedom and parental rights. Advocates applaud the move as a critical step in protecting children from forced marriages and abuse. The development highlights a growing partisan divide over child marriage laws, with several states considering similar bans while others have moved to weaken restrictions. California's action may pressure other states to follow suit, but the patchwork of laws means the practice will persist across much of the country.