AUGUSTA - A bill from Rep. Kevin O'Connell, D-Brewer, to raise the minimum age to marry was signed into law on Thursday, June 1.
Current state law allows children who are 16 or 17 years old to get married so long as they have written consent from their parents or guardians or the consent of a probate judge.
As amended, the new law will continue to authorize the issuance of a marriage license to a child who is 17 years of age and receives the necessary consent, but will prohibit a marriage license to a child who is under 17 years of age.
"I'm grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support to get this done," said O'Connell. "While I ultimately hope to see Maine raise the minimum marriage age to 18, compromising to make progress is better than accomplishing nothing."
The new law will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.
O'Connell is serving his third term in the Maine House and represents most of the City of Brewer. He is a member of the Transportation Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [OConnell] c. 305-965-2744