Sec. 311.016. "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. (1) "May" creates discretionary authority or grants permission or a power.
2. (2) "Shall" imposes a duty.
3. (3) "Must" creates or recognizes a condition precedent.
4. (4) "Is entitled to" creates or recognizes a right.
5. (5) "May not" imposes a prohibition and is synonymous with "shall not."
6. (6) "Is not entitled to" negates a right.
7. (7) "Is not required to" negates a duty or condition precedent.

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