§ 1-15. Mental state.

(a)

A culpable mental state is not required for the commission of an offense under this Code, unless:

(1)

The provisions defining the offense expressly require a culpable mental state; or

(2)

The offense is punishable by a fine exceeding the amount authorized by V.T.C.A., Penal Code § 12.23.

(b)

If an offense defined by this Code is punishable by a fine exceeding the amount authorized by V.T.C.A., Penal Code § 12.23, then the culpable mental state shall be that of criminal negligence, unless a higher culpable mental state is specified in this Code in the definition of the offense.

(c)

The term "offense" as used in this section means an act, which is prohibited by this Code or which is made or declared to be unlawful, an offense or a misdemeanor by this Code.

(Ord. No. 8796, § 1, 1-13-00; Ord. No. 10,129, § 1, 8-11-05)