Governor Joins Legislature in Supporting Exploration of Land Purchase

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has joined Legislative Leaders in their support for two bills that would allow the state to evaluate a significant land purchase. According to a news release form the Governor’s Office, the exploration could bring new income to the state, while benefiting public access for hunting and outdoor recreation, wildlife, and other economic interests.

Senate File 138 was unanimously passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee Tuesday after it was introduced with the full 30 yay votes of the Senate body. House Bill 249, which is a mirror bill running in the House, was passed with similar support. Only 4 Representatives voted against it with 3 excused. Local Legislators Mark Jennings and Richard Tass voted nay while Cyrus Western was one of the excused. If one of those measures makes the cut and are signed into law by Governor Gordon, the Office of State Lands and Investments, State Loan and Investment Board, and the Attorney General will begin a thorough vetting process that will include an appraisal, examination of potential revenue, and a determination of the investment policies of each funding source. To view the bills, follow the links below

House Bill 249: https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2020/HB0249

Senate File 138: https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2020/SF0138