Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025
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Crime and Law Enforcement
Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5] (R) — AZ
Summary
This bill establishes a default mens rea standard (i.e., state of mind requirement) for federal criminal offenses—statutory and regulatory—that lack an explicit standard.
The government must generally prove that a defendant acted knowingly with respect to each element of an offense for which the text does not specify a state of mind.
Legislative subjects
Crime and Law Enforcement; Criminal investigation, prosecution, interrogation; Criminal procedure and sentencing
Latest action
Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute by the Yeas and Nays: 15 - 13.
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