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Bill

SB 5695

Eliminating child marriage.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Manka Dhingra and 4 co-sponsors

SB 5695 raises Washington's minimum marriage age and eliminates parental/judicial consent exemptions to prevent child marriage and its documented harms to minors.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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Bill Summary · SB 5695

Legislative bill overview

SB 5695 seeks to eliminate child marriage in Washington State by raising the minimum marriage age and removing exemptions that currently allow minors to marry with parental or judicial consent. The bill aims to protect children from early marriage, which research associates with negative educational, health, and economic outcomes.

Why is this important

Child marriage remains legal in many U.S. states, including Washington, under certain circumstances. Early marriage significantly disrupts educational attainment, increases health risks during pregnancy and childbirth for young teens, and limits economic independence. This bill addresses a practice that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those in immigrant and religious communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental authority concerns: Some families and religious groups view parental consent for marriage as a fundamental right and may argue the state is overreaching into family decisions
  • Definition and enforcement: Questions about how exemptions would be removed or enforced, and whether exceptions for specific circumstances (medical emergencies, emancipation) would be included
  • Age threshold specificity: Disagreement over what the appropriate minimum age should be (18 vs. 16 with conditions) and whether any exceptions for older minors with parental consent are acceptable

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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