New Hampshire Passes Bill to Raise Marriage Age Amid Controversy

The bill, which aims to set the minimum marriage age at 18, has sparked debate and criticism, particularly over comments by a Republican lawmaker.

New Hampshire's legislature has approved a bill to raise the minimum marriage age to 18, sending it to Governor Chris Sununu for approval.
Republican State Rep. Jess Edwards faced backlash for describing teenagers as 'ripe, fertile' during the debate, arguing that the bill could increase abortions.
The bill's passage could make Maine the only Northeast state allowing marriage under 18, highlighting regional disparities in child marriage laws.
Advocates for the bill argue it will reduce risks of human trafficking and domestic violence associated with child marriages.
If signed into law, New Hampshire will join 12 other states that have made child marriage illegal, reflecting a growing trend against the practice in the U.S.