To specify the state of mind required for conviction for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind, and for other purposes.

Hozzl · 2025-01-10T09:05:59Z

Explore the details of House Bill 59 To specify the state of mind required for conviction for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind, and for other purposes. currently in Congress. Get insights into its purpose, current status, sponsors, and potential impact on undefined. Stay informed on legislative developments.

1/10/2025, 9:05 AM

Summary of Bill HR 59

Bill 119 HR 59, also known as the "Mens Rea Reform Act of 2021," aims to address the issue of criminal offenses that do not clearly specify the mental state required for conviction. The bill seeks to establish a uniform standard for determining the state of mind necessary for conviction in such cases.

Under the proposed legislation, prosecutors would be required to prove that the defendant acted with a specific mental state, such as intent, knowledge, recklessness, or negligence, in order to secure a conviction for a criminal offense that does not explicitly state the required mental state. This would help ensure that individuals are not unfairly convicted of crimes without the necessary culpable mental state.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure that individuals are not held criminally liable for unintentional or unknowing actions. It aims to protect individuals from being prosecuted for crimes they did not knowingly commit. Overall, Bill 119 HR 59 seeks to clarify and standardize the mental state requirements for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind. It aims to promote fairness and justice in the criminal justice system by ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their actions only when they have the requisite mental state to commit a crime.

Congressional Summary of HR 59

Mens Rea Reform Act of 2025

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.

Current Status of Bill HR 59

Bill HR 59 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 3, 2025. Bill HR 59 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 3, 2025. Bill HR 59's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 3, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 59

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 59

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Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 59

To specify the state of mind required for conviction for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind, and for other purposes.To specify the state of mind required for conviction for criminal offenses that lack an expressly identified state of mind, and for other purposes.

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