A Utah lawmaker is looking to raise the minimum age required by the state in order for couples to marry. Rep. Adam Gardiner, R-West Jordan, says that the age limit of 15-year-old is from "from a bygone era" and that such young marriages are not appropriate in today's world. Currently the state allows for 15-year-olds to marry with the consent of a parent or guardian, as well as that of a juvenile court, while those age 16 or 17 only need the permission of the former.
Gardiner is planning on proposing legislation next year that would remove the law allowing 15-year-olds to marry, while leave those age 16 or 17 in place. At least for the time being. He still remains opposed to the notion of 16 or 17-year-olds marrying, but has decided to see how this initial legislation fairs in the session.
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