A bill to ban marriage for anyone under 18 in Missouri advanced out of the Senate with a vote of 32 to 1. Sponsored by Democratic Sen. Tracy McCreery, the bill aims to combat child marriage, which has been seen as a form of trafficking. Similar legislation was filed by Republican Sen. Rick Brattin. The bill, which now heads to the House, would prohibit marriage for individuals under 18, aligning with international human rights standards. Advocates argue that child marriage can lead to forced marriages due to lack of legal rights and can result in mental and physical health issues, poverty, and abuse. Last year, the bill passed the Senate with only one opposing vote from Sen. Mike Moon. However, it was stalled in the House committee, citing concerns of government overreach and parental rights. Advocates include women who were forced into marriage as children and those against domestic violence. Brattin, initially against the ban, has come around to support it, acknowledging the necessity of addressing the issue today. Despite past lenient laws, Missouri is working towards aligning with international standards to protect vulnerable youth.
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