Bill > SB5695

This bill aims to eliminate child marriage in the state of Washington. It amends existing laws to raise the minimum marriage age to 18 years, removing any exceptions that previously allowed marriage under that age. The bill also removes language that allowed for parental consent to marriage under 18 years old. Additionally, it clarifies that gender-specific terms like "husband" and "wife" must be interpreted in a gender-neutral way, and it provides protections for religious organizations that choose not to solemnize or recognize same-sex marriages. The bill applies to any marriages entered into after its effective date.