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MS HB720
Bill
Status
Failed
2/3/2026
Primary Sponsor
Dana Underwood McLean
Click for details
AI Summary
- Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-3-71 to remove "forcible" from the definition of assault with intent to commit sexual penetration, making lack of consent sufficient for prosecution without requiring proof of force
- Conviction for assault with intent of sexual penetration carries a penalty of life imprisonment or a lesser term as determined by the jury or court upon a guilty plea
- Brings forward existing sexual battery statutes (Sections 97-3-95 through 97-3-103) with penalties ranging from 5 to 40 years depending on offender age and offense type, and up to life imprisonment for offenses against children under 14
- Courts may issue criminal sexual assault protection orders prohibiting offender contact with victims for a minimum of 2 years following completion of sentence, probation, or parole
- Effective date is July 1, 2026
Legislative Description
Rape; remove element of force.
Last Action
Died In Committee
2/3/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary B1/15/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available