SB 504 passed the Senate unanimously before clearing the House in a 51-36 vote. The law took effect on May 13 without the signature of Republican Governor Kevin Stitt. Supporters said the bill closes loopholes that allowed the exploitation of minors. Democratic State Representative Andy Fugate called child marriage a loophole enabling adults to have sex with minors. However, thirty-six Republican lawmakers voted against the measure.
Opponents of the bill cited the Bible, religion, and parental rights. Republican Representative Jim Olsen referenced Mary and Joseph, asking, “How old was Mary when she married Joseph?” According to the advocacy group Unchained At Last, more than 3,400 minors were married in Oklahoma between 2000 and 2021.
