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Maine Bans Child Marriage, Raises Legal Age to 18

5/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Maine has taken a significant step forward by raising the legal marriage age from 17 to 18, eliminating the possibility of parental consent. This landmark decision, supported by advocates, aims to shield minors from forced marriages, positioning Maine as the 14th state to outlaw child marriage. The new law will be in effect in just 90 days.

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Story summary

Maine has taken a significant step forward by raising the legal marriage age from 17 to 18, eliminating the possibility of parental consent. This landmark decision, supported by advocates, aims to shield minors from forced marriages, positioning Maine as the 14th state to outlaw child marriage. The new law will be in effect in just 90 days.