On August 27, 2026, California lawmakers took a historic step toward ending child marriage by advancing Assembly Bill 1267, which would prohibit marriage for anyone under 18 without exception. The bill passed both chambers, with overwhelming bipartisan support. However, one legislator abstained from voting, citing concerns about potential unintended consequences for emancipated minors. The abstaining member explained that while they support protecting children from coercion and abuse, they wanted more time to review how the law might affect rare cases where minors seek marriage for legal or immigration-related reasons.
Under current California law, minors can marry with parental consent and a judge’s approval—a loophole advocates say has enabled forced marriages and abuse. AB 1267 closes that loophole entirely.
The bill now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. He has until August 31 to sign it into law. If enacted, the ban will take effect on January 1, 2027, making California one of the last states to fully prohibit child marriage. Supporters say the measure will safeguard vulnerable youth, while opponents urge careful consideration of exceptional circumstances. The coming days will determine whether California joins the growing national movement to end child marriage once and for all.