The bill S. 25 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the minimum age for valid marriage. It stipulates that any individual younger than eighteen years of age is not capable of entering into a valid marriage, rendering such marriages void ab initio. Additionally, the bill amends Section 20-1-290 to remove references to certain code sections that have been repealed and repeals Sections 20-1-250 and 20-1-260, which pertained to the consent of relatives or guardians for applicants under the age of consent and proof of age required for minor applicants, respectively.

The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting minors from entering into marriage and streamlines the legal framework surrounding marriage licenses by eliminating outdated provisions. It also includes a clause ensuring that if any part of the act is found unconstitutional, the remaining sections will still be valid. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 20-1-100, 20-1-290, 20-1-250, 20-1-260
Latest Version: 20-1-100, 20-1-290, 20-1-250, 20-1-260