Story perspectives

Ohio Lawmakers Move to Ban Child Marriage, Raise Age to 18

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

A bipartisan group of Ohio lawmakers introduced a bill to raise the minimum legal marriage age to 18, effectively banning child marriage.
State Rep. Bill Blessing stated anyone marrying in Ohio must be 18.
Advocates say minors in these marriages are girls married to adult men, increasing domestic violence risk.
Child marriage survivor Stephanie Lowry shared her experiences, highlighting hardships.
Senate President Rob McColley said legislation is likely to pass.

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Story summary

A bipartisan group of Ohio lawmakers introduced a bill to raise the minimum legal marriage age to 18, effectively banning child marriage.
State Rep. Bill Blessing stated anyone marrying in Ohio must be 18.
Advocates say minors in these marriages are girls married to adult men, increasing domestic violence risk.
Child marriage survivor Stephanie Lowry shared her experiences, highlighting hardships.
Senate President Rob McColley said legislation is likely to pass.