Ohio Senate Stalls on Bill to Ban Child Marriage
Leaders say there is enough support to pass the measure, but the Senate President has not scheduled a vote.
By Sakura Ellis ·
Ohio Senate President Rob McColley has not scheduled a vote on a bill that would end marriages involving individuals under 18.
McColley, a Republican from Napoleon, stated he would vote in favor of the legislation but needed to secure sufficient support within his caucus before proceeding. He indicated he would discuss the matter with fellow Republican senators. The bill, known as Senate Bill 341, remains pending despite claims from backers that it has gathered enough votes to pass.
Supporters argue the measure should have been considered months ago. Fraidy Reese, the executive director of Unchained at Last, urged senators to act immediately to protect children from abuse and trafficking. Reese, who was forced into marriage at age 15, questioned why the chamber was delaying the decision. Stephanie Lowery, who married at 16 while pregnant, described how the legal status of her child marriage left her dependent on her husband without full adult rights. She said the arrangement trapped her in a cycle of abuse and homelessness until she turned 18.
Senate Democratic Leader Nickie Antonio said he expects the bill to pass if brought to the floor. He is advocating for its consideration during the upcoming lame duck session. Bill Blessing, a Republican from Colerain Township and joint sponsor of the bill, agreed that the measure is simple and should be completed during this period. Bill DeMora, the other joint sponsor and a Democrat from Columbus, said he is prepared to offer the bill as an amendment to other legislation if colleagues continue to table it. He noted that delaying the vote signals to the public that lawmakers are comfortable with underage marriages.
Allison Russo, a Democrat from Upper Arlington who sponsored a companion bill in the House, expressed confusion over why that measure has not advanced. She noted that the bill is bipartisan and that she has not received an explanation for the opposition. She highlighted the lack of even basic procedural steps, such as sponsor testimony, in the House process.
Eighteen other states have already enacted similar laws banning child marriage.
