Governor Cuomo Signs Legislation Ending Child Marriage in New York

The legislation raises the age of consent to marry from 14-years old to 18-years old. 

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation on Tuesday ending child marriage in New York State. The legislation raises the age of consent to marry from 14 years old to 18 years old.

The legislation also amends the process to require parental and judicial consent for marriage of those 17 years old and 18 years old.

Until this legislation was signed today, children as young as 14 years old could get married with parental permission and written consent provided by a judge.

The previous law, which dates back to 1929, does not provide guidance to judges determining whether or not to grant consent.

Governor Cuomo said:

This administration has worked tirelessly to defend exploited and disadvantaged New Yorkers, provide minors with the rights and protections that they deserve, and ensure that women are empowered to have control over their own lives, and with this legislation, we continue to help protect those who cannot protect themselves. This is a major step forward in our efforts to protect children and prevent forced marriages, and I am proud to sign this legislation that puts an end to child marriage in New York once and for all

More than 3,800 minors were married in New York between 2000 and 2010.

Now the law expressly prohibits anyone under the age of 17 from getting married and provides guidance for judges who are tasked with making a determination as to whether or not a 17-year-old may get married.