Legislation pre-filed to raise Missouri age requirement for marriage

A state representative-elect is working to stop child abuse and human trafficking in Missouri.

On Wednesday, incoming State Rep. Jean Evans (R-Manchester) filed House Bill 270. It would raise the state’s age requirement to receive a marriage license from 15 to 17.

“It’s time to close the loophole so we can protect our young people from those who would exploit and harm them,” said Evans.

Current state law allows people between the ages of 15 to 17 to get married.

Evans said HB 270 is designed to end child marriages that are used to hide abusive relationships and human trafficking.

“It’s illegal for an adult to have sexual contact with a child, but our laws have a loophole that allows these abusers to marry their victims and get away with the crime,” said Evans.

On Jan. 4, lawmakers from around the state will have a chance to consider the bill when the 2017 legislative session begins.