The bill, known as the "Child Protection Act of 2025," amends existing marriage laws in Oklahoma, specifically 43 O.S. 2021, Section 3. It establishes that individuals under the age of eighteen are generally prohibited from entering into marriage, with specific exceptions. Notably, the bill removes previous requirements for parental consent to be given in person or through various formalities, replacing it with a simpler provision that allows for court authorization if a court has conferred upon the minor the rights of majority. Additionally, it explicitly states that a parent or guardian of a child in the custody of the Department of Human Services or the Department of Juvenile Justice cannot consent to the marriage of that minor.
The bill also reinforces that no marriage may be authorized if it would be considered incestuous under current law. The effective date for this act is set for November 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance child protection by tightening the regulations surrounding marriage for minors in Oklahoma.