MS SB2653

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-3-65 to require that statutory rape be committed "knowingly and willfully" for both offenders age 17+ with victims 14-16 years old and offenders of any age with victims under 14 years old.

Maintains existing statutory rape definitions based on victim age and age differential requirements: 36+ months for victims 14-16, and 24+ months for victims under 14.

Preserves sentencing structure with enhanced penalties for older offenders, ranging from up to 5 years for offenders age 18-21 to up to 30-40 years for offenders age 21+.

Clarifies that victim consent and victim chastity remain non-viable defenses to statutory rape charges.

Takes effect upon passage.