Kentucky lawmakers push to close child marriage loophole once and for all

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky lawmakers are taking another step to end child marriage in the Commonwealth.

A bill that would eliminate a legal exception allowing 17-year-olds to marry with a judge’s approval is now moving to the full Senate. Supporters say Senate Bill 156 would close a loophole left behind after lawmakers raised the minimum marriage age to 18 in 2018.

Right now, 17-year-olds can still marry if they receive court approval. Advocates argue that exception can leave teens vulnerable to coercion and abuse.

During emotional testimony before lawmakers, Donna Simmons shared her own experience. She said she was 14 when she was groomed by a 29-year-old staff member at a behavioral health facility where she was receiving treatment. At 16, she married him.

Simmons urged lawmakers to remove the exception entirely, saying clearer, stronger law could better protect minors. She also told the committee that public records suggest some officials approved underage marriages in ways she believes went against the intent of the law.

Supporters of the measure say setting 18 as a firm minimum, without exceptions, would create stronger safeguards for teenagers across Kentucky.

The bill now heads to the full Senate for debate.