The momentum is continuing in Cheyenne! Despite one legislative setback, several good bills are moving forward. Here’s what you need to know from the past week.
PUBLIC LANDS BILL MOVES FORWARD
An excellent public lands resolution has cleared important legislative hurdles this week. SJ9, which states that Wyoming opposes the indiscriminate sale of public lands, passed unanimously in Committee and has now made it through two readings on the Senate floor. It will be heard once more in the Senate before going to the House.
While not legally binding, the resolution would send an important message that public lands are invaluable to Wyoming and should remain in public hands. Help get this bill to the next step by contacting your Senator today and telling them to vote YES on SJ9!
ELECTRIC VEHICLE BILL PROGRESSES
A bill that would right-size taxes for electric vehicle owners is moving forward.The current tax system subjects Wyoming EV drivers to triple taxation and is causing public charging stations to shut down. HB145 would make the system fairer for drivers and reduce red tape for charging stations — while still providing the state with revenue for road maintenance.
The bill passed the House Transportation Committee with full support — even WYDOT came out to speak in favor of it! — and has passed the first two readings on the House floor. It will be heard once more in the House before going to the Senate.
BACKYARD SOLAR DIES
Sadly, a bill that would have allowed Wyomingites to use “plug-in” solar panels has died. Plug-in solar, which is gaining popularity in other states, involves small panels that you plug directly into your home outlets. HB146 would have allowed Wyomingites to use this technology without going through a costly permitting process.
While the bill has died, lawmakers are planning to revisit the idea in the interim — i.e. after this year’s legislative session wraps up — so there’s a chance it could be back on the table in 2027.
TAX BREAK FOR GAME & FISH
The Game & Fish Department is the only state agency that pays property taxes on their offices. A proposed bill, which WOC is supporting, would exempt them from paying taxes on their headquarters and regional office buildings. This would save the agency approximately $500,000 per year, at a time when costs are rising. The bill has passed first reading in the Senate. It will be heard twice more before going to the House for consideration.
Image: Richard Garrett