Indecent assault; create the crime of and provide penalties.
Impact
If enacted, HB 683 would establish a new criminal offense in state law, providing a legal mechanism to prosecute individuals who engage in indecent assaults. The bill carries penalties that include a fine of up to $500 and/or imprisonment for up to six months. This legislative action reflects an intention to enhance legal protections for victims of sexual offenses by creating more explicit definitions and consequences for behaviors that are deemed unacceptable under the law.
Summary
House Bill 683 aims to create the crime of indecent assault in the state of Mississippi, outlining specific definitions and penalties associated with this offense. The bill defines key terms such as 'incapacitated' and 'intimate part', which are crucial for clarifying the scope of the criminal behavior being addressed. According to the provisions of the bill, an individual would be guilty of indecent assault if they intentionally touch another person's intimate parts for sexual arousal or gratification under certain unlawful conditions, including without consent or while the victim is incapacitated.
Contention
The introduction of HB 683 may lead to discussions regarding the adequacy of penalties for such offenses, especially considering that the maximum punishment includes relatively low fines and a short jail term. Advocates for victim rights may argue that the bill does not do enough to deter sexual misconduct, while some opponents may raise concerns regarding the implications for consensual interactions among adults. Additionally, the bill's language surrounding consent and incapacitation could be scrutinized to ensure clarity and efficacy in its application within legal proceedings.
Crimes: criminal sexual conduct; removal of condom during intercourse without consent of partner; establish as a crime. Amends sec. 520a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.520a) & adds sec. 520p.