What does Preamble of Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025 do?

This bill, formally titled 'To specify the state of mind required for conviction for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind, and for other purposes,' aims to clarify the mental state required for criminal convictions. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 3, 2025.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025 do?

This bill is formally titled the Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025.

What does STATE OF MIND ELEMENT FOR CRIMINAL OFFENSES. of Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025 do?

This section amends Chapter 1 of title 18, United States Code, by adding a new section on state of mind for criminal offenses. A covered offense is defined as an offense punishable by imprisonment, a maximum criminal fine of at least $2,500, or both. The section establishes default requirements for proving state of mind in covered offenses, including knowingly for elements without specified states of mind. Exceptions to these requirements include elements for which Congress affirmatively intended not to require proof of state of mind. The section applies to covered offenses committed on or after the date of enactment, with certain exceptions for prior offenses.

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Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025

Last updated: 6/10/2025 · Introduced: 1/3/2025

Author: Andy Biggs (R-AZ)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes default requirements for proving a defendant's mental state ('mens rea') in federal criminal offenses lacking a specifically defined mental state requirement.
The law applies to federal crimes punishable by imprisonment or a fine of at least $2,500, but excludes offenses where Congress explicitly intended to not require proof of state of mind.
The changes apply to offenses committed on or after the bill's enactment, with exceptions for prior offenses.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 1 more.

3 sections

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