In an inspiring step forward for child protection, Wisconsin lawmakers have introduced groundbreaking legislation that could make the state the latest to join a nationwide movement safeguarding young people's futures. The heartening bills, Senate Bill 634 and Assembly Bill 656, aim to establish 18 as the minimum marriage age with no exceptions—a change that reflects society's evolving understanding of children's rights and wellbeing.

This legislative effort represents more than just changing laws; it's about creating safer, healthier futures for Wisconsin's youth. State Senator Mark Spreitzer and State Representative Ann Roe are among the dedicated lawmakers championing this cause, demonstrating the power of persistent advocacy and compassion in government.

The proposed legislation would thoughtfully address several important areas. It would empower married minors to make their own decisions about legal separation or divorce, removing barriers that previously required adult guardians to initiate such proceedings. Additionally, those who married as minors would have up to ten years to file for annulment, providing a window of opportunity to reclaim their autonomy.

What makes this moment particularly exciting is the broader context: Wisconsin would be joining an impressive coalition of change-makers. Since 2018, sixteen states plus Washington D.C., American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have already raised the marriage age to 18, creating a powerful wave of protection sweeping across America. This growing consensus shows that communities nationwide are prioritizing the wellbeing and rights of young people.

Representative Ann Roe captured the optimistic spirit behind this initiative beautifully, noting that "this bill will protect young people and give them the opportunity to build safe, healthy futures." Her words reflect a fundamental truth: when we invest in protecting children today, we're investing in stronger communities tomorrow.

The legislation addresses current Wisconsin law, which permits 16 and 17-year-olds to marry with parental consent. By closing this loophole, lawmakers are acknowledging that young people deserve time to grow, pursue education, and develop independence before making lifelong commitments.

Organizations like Unchained at Last have been instrumental in supporting these positive changes across the country, providing research, advocacy, and survivor support that helps legislators craft effective, compassionate policies. Their work exemplifies how dedicated organizations can create meaningful change when they collaborate with lawmakers and communities.

While the bill still needs a committee hearing and faces an uncertain path in the Republican-controlled Legislature, the very fact that this conversation is happening represents progress. Similar bills introduced in 2019 and 2023 helped build awareness and momentum for this cause, showing that persistence and education can shift perspectives over time.

The nationwide movement to end child marriage demonstrates something beautiful: when communities recognize practices that don't serve children's best interests, they have the courage to change. Each state that raises the marriage age to 18 adds momentum to this protective wave, inspiring others to follow.

As Wisconsin considers this legislation, there's genuine hope that 2026 could mark another victory in the ongoing effort to ensure every young person has the freedom to grow up safely, pursue their dreams, and make major life decisions from a position of maturity and independence.