MS SB2016

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-3-65 to require that statutory rape be committed "knowingly and willfully" for both offenses: persons 17 or older with children 14-15 years old (with 36+ month age gap), and persons of any age with children under 14 (with 24+ month age gap).

Maintains existing sentencing provisions: 18-20 year-olds convicted under the first offense face up to 5 years imprisonment or $5,000 fine; 21+ year-olds face up to 30 years or $10,000 fine for first offense and up to 40 years for subsequent offenses.

Preserves that victim's consent and lack of chastity are not valid defenses to statutory rape charges.

Applies the knowledge and willfulness requirement only to statutory rape convictions; does not affect forcible sexual intercourse or sexual assault by incapacitation provisions.

Takes effect upon passage.