Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation to prevent child marriage, raising the minimum age for a person to consent to marriage to 18, officials announced.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation to prevent child marriage and protect minors.

The bills raise the minimum age for a person to consent to marriage to 18, according to Whitmer’s office.

“Keeping Michiganders safe and healthy is one of my top priorities, and today’s bipartisan bills will build on our efforts to protect young people—especially young women—from abuse,” said Whitmer. “As a county prosecutor, I went after those who used their power to prey on young people, and as governor, I am proud to sign legislation to strengthen protections for children and survivors into law. Together, we can make Michigan a safe, welcoming state where you can grow up and pursue your potential.”

  • jeffw@lemmy.worldMEnglish
    47·
    9 months ago

    House Bill 4296, sponsored by Rep. Betsy Coffia, D – Traverse City, is a grandfather law that ensures minors who are currently married do not lose their spousal benefits under the new laws.

    That’s just weird to read

    • parrot-party@kbin.social
      48·
      9 months ago

      It’s horrible but trying to force-ably separate them at this point would only lead to the minors being hidden from view, deepening the abuse. Additionally, the minors are highly unlikely to actually leave their spouse, no matter how bad their situation is. Adding fuel to the “society doesn’t want us together” would only serve to deepen the minor’s distrust in everyone but their spouse, making it much harder to help them from any ongoing abuse.