I'm 13 years old and I am dating an 17 year old. Could it be illegal?

Well I'm an 8th grader and my boyfriend is a senior. We have just recently gotten together and we have known each other for a little over a year now. I heard that the new consent age is 16, but I just wanted to make sure that it was true. I know, I seem quite young to be dating someone his age. I also bet your mind went immediately to, "Yup, he wants sex. He's taking advantage of her." But I think every guy is a little different, don't you think? I hate that stereotype. Anyways, we are trying to apprehend our long distance relationship. He's just around 2 states away from me. After he graduates, he hopes to travel the United States and wishes to see me or visit sometime next summer. I can say with total honesty that I love him, a lot. Whether it be as a friend or as a boyfriend. I'm just concerned on where the "boundaries" are. Even if we are not having sex until I am ready (meaning over 18), can kissing or holding hands in public be a crime? I'm concerned for his safety and I want to know if I should break up with him early in the relationship before things get too serious. Love him to bits, but I will let him go if I have to for his freedom. Answers?