MS SB2772

Raises the age threshold for statutory rape from 17 to 21 years old for offenders having intercourse with children aged 14-15 who are 36+ months younger.

Creates a new "close in age" exemption for individuals aged 17-20 having intercourse with children aged 14-15 who are 48+ months younger, relieving them of criminal responsibility.

Applies similar close-in-age exemptions to sexual battery offenses, with reduced penalties for offenders aged 18-20 who are no more than 48 months older than the child victim.

Modifies sentencing provisions to impose lesser penalties (up to 5 years) for offenders aged 18-20 under the close-in-age exceptions, compared to 30-40 year sentences for older offenders.

Becomes effective July 1, 2016.