Missouri Lawmaker Stands by Controversial Proposal to Allow 12-Year-Olds to Marry

During a debate on a bill that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender children, a Republican lawmaker in Missouri suggested that children as young as 12 should be allowed to get married in the state. The lawmaker, Mike Moon, cited an example of a couple who married at 12 and are still together. Moon's remarks have drawn criticism from Democrats and advocacy groups. Missouri's attorney general also announced new restrictions on gender-affirming care for adults and minors, which has been met with opposition from advocacy groups.