MS SB2197

Amends Section 97-5-33 of the Mississippi Code to clarify that possession of child pornography requires "knowing" possession or "knowingly access with intent to view" the material.

Adds the requirement that a person must knowingly access such visual depictions with intent to view them, establishing the necessary state of mind for a violation.

Maintains existing prohibitions on causing, soliciting, or permitting children to engage in sexually explicit conduct; photographing or recording such conduct; and distributing or selling such material.

Preserves the defense provision that undercover operatives or law enforcement officers posing as children cannot use their involvement as a defense to prosecution.

Takes effect July 1, 2013.