Child Marriage Laws In Texas Could Change Dramatically Soon

It has long been known that in Texas, there were ways for minors to get married. In 2017, Texas closed the doors on most child marriages. However, there was still one exception that was allowed.

This year could be the year that Texas officially does away with marriages for minors, regardless of the circumstances. House Bill 168 sets new rules for marriage and has passed the House. It's now waiting in the Senate.

No More Child Brides In The State Of Texas

Once upon a time in Texas, people between 16 and 18 could get married with their parents' permission. Younger than that, needed approval from a judge.

READ MORE: Social Media For Minors Coming For Texas

That changed in 2017 when a bill was passed changing the rules for marriage in the Lone Star State. The new rules stated that anyone between 16 and 18 needed to be legally emancipated from their parents. Other than that, you have to be 18 to get married.

A new bill in Texas would do away with marriages for those between the ages of 16 and 18. It would also void marriages that currently exist between an adult and a minor.

New Strict Age Restrictions On Marriage Possible In Texas

The bill, HB 168, states that a clerk can not issue a marriage license to someone under the age of 18, even if they are emancipated or have had the "disabilities of minority" removed.

Supporters of the bill claim that the emancipation loophole that exists today has made room for abuse. Closing the loophole, according to the supporters, will protect thousands of young women in the Lone Star State.

The most recent update on the bill is that it has been received in the Senate. Now we wait to see if marriages change in Texas.