Statutes > New Mexico Statutes > Chapter 12 - Miscellaneous Public Affairs Matters. > Article 2A - Uniform Statute and Rule Construction Act, 12-2A-1 through 12-2A-20. > Section 12-2A-4 - Construction of "shall", "must" and "may".

Section 12-2A-4 - Construction of "shall", "must" and "may".

12-2A-4. Construction of "shall", "must" and "may".

A.     "Shall" and "must" express a duty, obligation, requirement or condition precedent.   

B.     "May" confers a power, authority, privilege or right.   

C.     "May not", "must not" and "shall not" prohibit the exercise of a power, authority, privilege or right.