NC H849

Creates new criminal offense of third degree rape under North Carolina law, defined as continuing vaginal intercourse after consent is withdrawn.

Establishes that a person may withdraw consent during intercourse, even if penetration is already in progress or if only one act of intercourse is occurring.

Requires withdrawal of consent to be clearly communicated in a way that a reasonable person would understand as withdrawal of consent.

Classifies third degree rape as a Class E felony.

Effective date is December 1, 2011, and applies only to offenses committed on or after that date.