MS SB2069

Clarifies that youth court retains original jurisdiction over statutory rape (Section 97-3-65), sexual battery (Section 97-3-95), felony child abuse (Section 97-5-39), and fondling (Section 97-5-23), even though these crimes would otherwise be prosecuted in circuit court as life or death offenses.

Maintains circuit court's original jurisdiction over acts by children that would be punishable by life imprisonment or death, except for the four sexual offense and child abuse categories listed above.

Circuit court retains original jurisdiction over acts committed by children with deadly weapons that constitute felonies if committed by adults.

Children under thirteen years old cannot be held criminally responsible or prosecuted for any misdemeanor or felony; parents or guardians may be civilly liable instead.

Effective date is July 1, 2017.