A Washington law banning child marriage went into effect on Wednesday, but most states still allow the practice.An effort to end child marriage in the United States has gained steam in recent years. In 2018, Delaware became the first state to do so, with 11 other states following suit. Advocates for ending child marriage say minors who get married face unique challenges in the legal system and economic setbacks, as well as being left vulnerable to abuse.
'Too often, this law has enabled the abuse of young people.'Contacted by Newsweek on Friday for comment, an Inslee spokesperson referred to the remarks the governor made during the signing.Thirty-eight states still allow child marriage. In addition to Washington, only the following states have raised their minimum marriage age to 18: Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Virginia.