Can a 23 year old male and 17 year old female legally date in the state of Pennsylvania?

Date, yes. Keep in mind that at 17 the female is probably under the control of her parents who may have an opinion of what is and what is not appropriate.

Or are you asking about having sex?

Dating wouldn't be the legal concern. It's sex. Although age of consent in your state is 16. However, I would suggest dating someone your own age, but that's my opinion.

Thanks. Actually, dating is truly all I'm concerned with. I have a college degree, a good job, and can support myself. My girlfriend works full time as well as goes to school, and she is intelligent, but doesn't come from a family that supports her intellectually. I'm trying to convince her to at least try college. With her financial situation she could get a lot of aid from the government - and I honestly think she'd do well. I just want to try and do her more good than harm. I have this feeling that I need to step away and let her grow up first, but I also have this protective instinct... so I'm not sure.

I'm sorry if this comes off harsh, but it sounds like you want to play "daddy". If that's the case, go be a big brother to a child that needs a positive role model.

Does her parents know about your relationship with her? How long has the relationship been going on?

Doesn't sound harsh at all. I've already accused myself of the same thing in my mind. Yes, her parents know about me. Her mom loves me, actually. (Which I was sort of surprised about, considering our age difference.)

Oh - 2 months. Sorry.

Then why continue a relationship that you think might be inappropriate and for the wrong reasons? She needs to date someone her own age and so do you.

How long has the relationship been going on?

Thanks for the thoughts. I appreciate it. Sounds like a supportive friendship may be more in order.