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Government Code §311.016

Text in force on

In force on May 23, 1997 · this text took effect May 23, 1997 · same as today's text

"MAY," "SHALL," "MUST," ETC. The following constructions apply unless the context in which the word or phrase appears necessarily requires a different construction or unless a different construction is expressly provided by statute: (1) "May" creates discretionary authority or grants permission or a power. (2) "Shall" imposes a duty. (3) "Must" creates or recognizes a condition precedent. (4) "Is entitled to" creates or recognizes a right. (5) "May not" imposes a prohibition and is synonymous with "shall not." (6) "Is not entitled to" negates a right. (7) "Is not required to" negates a duty or condition precedent.

History: Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 220, Sec. 1, eff. May 23, 1997.

Source: the Legislature's file server, seen Oct 18, 2019 to Nov 08, 2026.

Every version on file

A research copy. The official text is the Legislature's (statutes), the Secretary of State's (Texas Administrative Code) or eCFR's (federal rules). Not legal advice.