Columbus—Today, Senate Minority Leader Kenny Yuko (D-Richmond Heights) testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Senate Bill 198, which increases the legal age of marriage in Ohio to 18. 

"Marriage can have devastating effects on children-especially those who are married against their will," said Senator Yuko. "Our outdated marriage law is failing to protect our children."

According to Unchained at Last, an organization that advocates to end child marriage in the US, girls who marry as minors are significantly more susceptible to developing mental and physical health problems and are three times more likely to experience domestic violence. 

An investigation published by the Dayton Daily News in September revealed that more than 4,400 girls age 17 or younger were married in Ohio between 2000 and 2015, including 59 who were 15 or younger, and three who were just 14.

"Many people think that child marriage only happens in developing countries, but it is happening in their communities, cities and neighboring states as well," said Senator Yuko. "We must protect those who cannot protect themselves. That is what this legislation aims to accomplish. Children who are forced into marriage often do not have the means or are deterred by law from initiating legal action in their name.

"In Ohio, marriage is a legal contract that children can enter into, but cannot legally exit because they are not adults. This is contradictory in nature and dangerous for children who may be trapped in abusive marriages." 

The initial draft of SB 198 allowed Ohioans to marry at 16 and 17 with judicial and parental consent. However, Senator Yuko asked Chairman Kevin Bacon to allow the bill to be amended to prohibit all marriages under 18.