MS SB2158

Clarifies that youth courts lack exclusive jurisdiction when a child age 16 or older commits acts punishable by death or life imprisonment; circuit courts have original jurisdiction in such cases.

Removes youth court exclusive jurisdiction when a child age 16 or older commits a felony using a deadly weapon (including concealed weapons prohibited by Section 97-37-1), shotgun, or rifle; circuit courts have original jurisdiction instead.

Preserves chancery court jurisdiction over child abuse charges that arise during pending custody actions between parents when no prior abuse notice was provided.

Maintains youth court jurisdiction until a child's twentieth birthday unless sooner terminated, except for offenses committed on or after the eighteenth birthday.

Takes effect July 1, 2013.