California is taking a definitive step towards ending child marriage with the unanimous approval of Bill AB 1267 by the state Senate. This significant piece of legislation now heads back to the Assembly for final approval before reaching Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. If enacted, it will establish a minimum marriage age of 18 in California for the first time.
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Courtney Stodden, a model and former reality TV star, has publicly celebrated this advancement on social media. In an enthusiastic Instagram video, she expressed her excitement about the bill’s passing, emphasizing its historic nature given that every senator voted in favour. Stodden, who was married at the age of 16 to actor Doug Hutchison, has been vocal about her past experiences and has worked closely with the nonprofit organisation Unchained at Last, which advocates against child marriage in the United States.
In the video shared on her Instagram, Stodden reflected on her own situation: “I was 16, he was 51, and people can call that marriage, but I was still a child.” Her comments highlight the power imbalance in relationships involving a minor and an adult. She added that legal marriage does not equip a child with the rights or resources of an adult, a sentiment she feels strongly about given California’s current lack of a minimum marriage age.
California is one of only three states in the United States that does not impose a minimum age for marriage. Stodden articulated the necessity of having a legal standard that protects children from such unions. She believes that the passage of AB 1267 is a crucial measure to ensure children are safeguarded from practices that can lead to exploitation and abuse.
Stodden urged her followers to support the bill as it moves to the Assembly Judiciary Committee, creating an opportunity for constituents to voice their opinions to local representatives. She highlighted the importance of community advocacy, indicating that raising awareness about child marriage can contribute to meaningful change in legislation.
The former couple’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the need for legal protections for young individuals. Stodden’s marriage to Hutchison ended in divorce in 2020, after almost a decade together. In a reflective Instagram post about her divorce, she expressed feelings of having been taken advantage of during her youth.
Throughout her journey, Stodden has remained an advocate against child marriage, and her efforts have resonated beyond her own experiences. She has frequently stated her desire to prevent others from enduring similar hardships, emphasising the importance of legislative reform.
In December 2024, Stodden announced her marriage to television producer Jared Safier, indicating a hopeful new chapter in her life. Representatives stated that both are thrilled about their commitment to one another.
The potential enactment of AB 1267 represents a significant societal shift. California would join other states in establishing a clear threshold for marriage, advocating for the rights of young people, and ensuring that children are protected. As Stodden poignantly noted in her video, “Children should not be married. They should be protected.”
This bill, if signed into law, may offer a new standard for marriage in California, aiming to prevent the exploitation of minors in romantic partnerships. The ongoing discussions surrounding child marriage also reflect a growing awareness of the need for legal reforms that safeguard youth, ensuring their rights and well-being in a time of change.