Marriage; Child Protection Act of 2024; exception; effective date.

HB 1997 amends Oklahoma's marriage law (43 O.S. 2021, Section 3) to strengthen requirements for minors under 18 seeking marriage. It specifies detailed consent procedures for parents/guardians (including written consent, medical certificates, or military authorization), prohibits parents/guardians in DHS/Juvenile Justice custody from consenting, and bans marriages for those under 16 except in limited court-approved cases (e.g., pregnancy or paternity suits). The bill directly affects minors seeking marriage, their parents/guardians, and marriage license issuers who must collect and retain required documentation. It takes effect November 1, 2025.