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Legislature

Field Notes


Demystifying Wyoming’s budget: all your questions, answered

Posted on by Era Aranow

Demystifying Wyoming’s Budget: All Your Questions, Answered

One week from today, the 93 citizen lawmakers of the Wyoming State Legislature will convene to kick off the 2024 legislative session — a budget session. Before that, though, let’s do a quick gut check: What happens when you hear the words, “It’s time to talk about the state’s budget?”

If you’re as engrossed in state fiscal policy as I am, maybe these words cause your ears to perk up … but if you’re not, it’s likely your eyes are already glazing over and you may be asking yourself why the state’s budget should matter to you at all.

I completely get it: Discussions about the budget are often obscure, inaccessible, and confusing. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Moreover, it shouldn’t be that way — because the budget lawmakers eventually approve in the next several weeks will impact you, me, and everyone else in Wyoming.

So, let’s demystify the state’s budget and discuss what in the world all of this has to do with conservation.

(If after reading the budget still feels convoluted and complex — or you just want to know more — there’s a spot below where you can ask us your burning questions!)

What does Wyoming spend its money on?

Wyoming budgets its revenue for all the state institutions and services we rely on: schools, state agencies, family services, roads, corrections, and local governments — to name a few!

Great — but why does the budget matter for conservation?

Broadly, the budget distributes (or, in some cases, denies) funding to state agencies that influence the conservation and protection of Wyoming’s lands, air, wildlife, waterways, and quality of life. Numerous agencies fall into this category, including the Wyoming Energy Authority and the Department of Environmental Quality.

Where does the money for Wyoming’s budget come from?

Wyoming’s major revenue sources are sales and use taxes, severance taxes (imposed on the extraction of natural resources), federal mineral royalties, mineral ad valorem taxes (similar to property taxes, but based on mineral rights), and federal funds. Unlike most states, Wyoming does not fund its operations entirely with tax revenue and federal funds — investment income is also a significant source of funding. Much of the money in these investment funds came from severance tax revenue saved over time.

How do state officials know how much revenue they can spend?

Wyoming can’t spend more than predictions say we will earn in revenue. These predictions are made several times a year by the Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, a group of economics and minerals professionals, academics, and state executives. Wyoming’s revenue is highly dependent on forces outside our state’s control, including the market prices of fossil fuels and state investment income. These and many other external forces can cause dramatic fluctuations in revenue. (For example, unexpectedly high gas prices last winter may have hurt our pocketbooks, but they led to higher state revenue for the year.)

You’ve said that this year’s legislative session is a budget session. What does that mean, and how is it different from a general session?

A budget session is typically 20 days, half the length of a general session. During the budget session, lawmakers are primarily focused on agreeing on a budget to guide the state’s spending for the next biennium, or two-year period. The legislature considers other, non-budget bills during a budget session, too — but to ensure a greater focus on the budget, these other bills require a two-thirds majority vote for introduction, which can be a high bar to pass.

What’s the process to approve the state’s budget during the session?

Before the session, the governor and then the Joint Appropriations Committee (which consists of members of both the House and Senate) put in a lot of work on the budget. When the session begins, the budget bill is introduced in both chambers as identical “mirror” bills, SF001 and HB001. These bills are discussed, voted on, and amended multiple times, after which members from each chamber work out the differences between their respective bills. Then the budget is sent to the governor. The governor can sign it into law, or veto individual sections and then sign it into law. The legislature can override a veto with a two-thirds majority vote.

How can citizens get involved in the budget process?

If you know about a certain provision in the budget (see our highlights below), you can call or email your legislators to let them know what you support or oppose. Because of its length and its many, many components, following the budget bill and its progression through the chambers can be challenging. That’s where the Outdoor Council comes in — we’ll do our best to keep you updated via email on how and when you can reach out to your legislators on conservation topics within the budget.

Do we know what those budget-related conservation topics are going to be?

As of the time of this blog’s publication, this year’s budget bill has not yet been finalized. Still, we already know of several important conservation priorities within it, including:

  • Section 20, Department of Environmental Quality – The DEQ (which is responsible for protecting the state’s environment while enabling economic development) requested 14 new positions to support both industry and the environment. Most of these positions are in air quality and water quality divisions. We support the addition of positions to the DEQ — with the EPA’s recent methane reduction rule and other anticipated federal air quality rules in the coming year, the DEQ needs more employees to keep up with demand and to meet federal requirements.

  • Section 39, Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust – Gov. Mark Gordon requested $20 million to protect wildlife habitat by fighting invasive grasses. We support the governor’s request. Invasive grasses such as cheatgrass pose a significant threat to biologically diverse habitats, agricultural grazing capacity, and our state’s wildlife populations.

  • Section 90, Wyoming Energy Authority – The WEA, which advocates for Wyoming’s energy economy and implements its energy strategy, requested five new positions. While we would like to see all of these positions added, we are particularly supportive of the Renewable Resource Manager. As the need to diversify our economy increases, this position will increase the agency’s ability to promote responsible renewable energy growth and proper siting.

  • Section 96, State Budget Department – Gov. Gordon proposed $500,000 to continue funding the work of the grant management office, which was created in 2023. This office helps Wyoming’s small and under-resourced communities by assisting them with grant applications for abundant federal funds. We support the governor’s proposal. This funding is especially important in the context of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Joint Infrastructure and Jobs Act, each of which have programs that are available to the state.

  • Section 300, Kelly Parcel (and other items) – This catch-all section of the budget will include a statement asking the State Board of Land Commissioners to sell the Kelly Parcel directly to the federal government for $100 million. You may remember hearing from us recently about the proposed sale of Kelly Parcel, a piece of land prized for its irreplaceable wildlife habitat. We strongly support the direct sale of the parcel to the federal government for incorporation into Grand Teton National Park. The requested price tag is over 160% of its appraised value. At this price, the $4 million it would earn annually in income is over 1400 times the $2,800 it currently earns annually from leasing. This additional revenue could significantly contribute to funding our schools.

How can I make my voice heard for non-budget bills during session? And where can I find out how to contact my legislators?

Visit our State Legislature webpage to find a wealth of resources, information about contacting your legislators, and tips and tricks for making your voice heard during the session.

What other questions do you have about the budget or the upcoming session? Share them with us below!

I’ll see you next Monday (the first day of session!) for another Legislative Lowdown.

Field Notes


The 2024 Legislative Session: what to know now

Posted on by Era Aranow

THE 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION: WHAT TO KNOW NOW

Get ready for the rodeo … the 2024 session of the Wyoming Legislature is almost here!

Last May, I proudly stepped into the role of government affairs manager at the Outdoor Council. In the nine or so months since then, I’ve been singularly focused on preparing for the upcoming session. From endless reading, research, and meetings to time spent cultivating relationships, it’s all been in support of our work in the halls of the Capitol, which will kick off in just two short weeks. Soon, there will be nothing left to do but jump in the saddle and hold onto my hat.

There are already more than 150 bills on the docket — and we anticipate many more by February 14, the last day to submit bills for consideration. That means that during the session, which lasts only a whirlwind 20 days, lawmakers and lobbyists will attempt to wrangle several hundred bills.

Once the action begins on February 12, the dust won’t settle until early March. But I’ll be at the Capitol from start to finish, along with other Outdoor Council staff. Together, we’ll work to corral support for conservation-favoring bills, bust the bad ones, and keep an eye on the issues that matter most to you.

Through it all, I’ll be sharing updates with you, in the form of weekly email newsletters and action alerts as needed — so make sure you’re signed up to receive our emails! For now, read on for more information about what to expect in this year’s session.

Barrel racing through the budget

This year’s session is a budget session. That means that when lawmakers convene, they’ll be primarily concerned with debating (and eventually modifying and passing) Gov. Mark Gordon’s proposed budget for the next biennium, the two-year period from 2025–2026.

Big questions for this year’s budget session will include if or how to fill in the gaps exposed by the end of federal COVID dollars. In 2020, declining revenue from our extractive industries compelled significant budget cuts. Many of these cuts were mitigated when federal COVID relief money to the state allowed funds for these programs.

Though the threshold for introducing non-budget bills is higher during a budget session, we’ll still see plenty of other legislation including bills in response to the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan, the Rocky Mountain Power rate case, and rising property tax valuations.

For a primer on the legislative process and how a bill becomes a law, check out the infographic below.

You can catch this and much more in the recording of our virtual 2024 Legislative Preview. Plus, I’ll be covering the nuts and bolts of the state’s budget in my first weekly legislative email newsletter — look out for it next week!

Spurring conservation action: What to expect from WOC

We’ll maintain a full-time presence in Cheyenne, tracking the action where it’s happening: in the halls of the Capitol.

We’ll keep a close eye on conservation bills. We’ll work to ensure development of state lands doesn’t come at a cost to Wyoming’s wildlife, clean air and clean water, and wide-open spaces. We’ll support responsible siting of renewable energy projects, advocate ample funding for the agencies stewarding our natural resources, and oppose the bad ideas that regularly creep into legislation, such as state takeover of federal lands.

We’ll share opportunities for you to make a difference. It makes an enormous difference when citizens speak up, and throughout the session we’ll be roping in help from supporters like you. Be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our emails and text message alerts. (On our sign-up page, check “Yes, sign me up for text messages.”) Things can change quickly down there, but we’ll keep you in the know with weekly updates on key bills.

We’ll lift the veil on what can seem like a complex process. Our State Legislature webpage is full of useful resources to help you be an effective citizen advocate, including our Citizen’s Guides and a live bill tracker. You can also watch our virtual 2024 Legislative Preview, which contains expert tips for sharing your priorities and concerns with legislators.

We’ll publish our Conservation Vote Report after the session, which contains analyses of the conservation issues debated by lawmakers, as well as a record of how they voted on key legislation.

The rodeo’s fast on its way. If there’s one last thing I can offer you before we hop on the bull, it’s to not underestimate the power of contacting your elected officials, who are incredibly accessible. Here in Wyoming, when we reach out to them, they (not staff!) are the ones who will answer your emails and calls. Sharing your concerns and priorities with them can have an enormous impact.

If you have any questions about engaging in the legislative process to defend what you value most, drop me a line or visit our State Legislature webpage. 

Looking forward to working with you,

Field Notes


The Wyoming Legislature is in session. Here’s what you need to know. 

Posted on by Brandon Reynolds

The Wyoming Legislature gaveled in for the 2023 general session at noon Tuesday, Jan. 10, where lawmakers will confront a lot of new faces (including 29 new representatives and five new senators), a $913 million budget surplus, and perhaps as many as 700 individual bills. What comes next is a 40-day sprint for legislators to craft, debate, and pass legislation that can impact Wyoming’s communities, economy, environment, and quality of life for years or generations to come.

With so many people and issues competing for legislators’ attention — and so much on the line for Wyoming’s future — it’s crucial to remind them at every opportunity that conservation is a priority.

This means you, and Wyoming Outdoor Council members like you, will need to get involved. It makes a difference in Wyoming when legislators hear from you — their constituents and neighbors — and thanks to your dedication we’ve had significant successes in Cheyenne over the years. This year, we ask you to stay engaged and speak up for clean air, clean water, healthy wildlife, and public lands.

Here’s what you can expect from the Outdoor Council during the session:

A CLOSE EYE ON CONSERVATION BILLS

WOC will work to ensure development of state lands doesn’t come at the cost of Wyoming’s open spaces, wildlife, clean air and clean water, and to support responsible siting of renewable energy development. We’ll support adequate funding for state agencies that steward our natural resources and protect air and water quality. And we’ll be vigilant against bad ideas that tend to creep into legislation year after year — like state takeover of federal public lands and attacks on rooftop solar energy.

YOUR FULL-TIME VOICE IN CHEYENNE

The Wyoming Capitol is where the work gets done and, as usual, WOC will have a full time presence in Cheyenne this session. Your primary lobbyists will be Era Aranow of Lander (a seasoned legislative advocate who represented WOC at the 2022 session) and Keith Rittle of Laramie (a geologist and former WOC board member). Additionally, other WOC conservation advocates will rotate down to Cheyenne to weigh in on important issues where they have expertise.

WEEKLY UPDATES AND ACTION ALERTS

Things move quickly down in Cheyenne, so we’ll keep you up to speed with weekly email updates. We’ll also alert you when there are important opportunities to share your perspectives by contacting your legislators or giving a public testimony.

EDUCATIONAL (& FUN!) PROGRAMS

Last week, we hosted a virtual Wyoming Legislature 101 event along with Powder River Basin Resource Council to explain the legislative process, how to read a bill and navigate the legislative website, and how to share an effective message with lawmakers. You can watch a replay of the panel discussion on our YouTube channel. Coming up, we’ll be hosting two Beers & Bills events to talk about important bills, get your input, and share our insights from the Capitol. Mark your calendar for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25 at Coal Creek Tap in Laramie, and 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26 at Bella Fuoco in Cheyenne.

POST-SESSION REPORTS

Each year, after the dust finally settles, WOC publishes our Conservation Vote Report with analysis of conservation issues that were debated during the session, and a record of how your lawmakers voted on key conservation bills.

Many, many bills will be introduced in the early days of the session so be sure to sign up for WOC emails and watch your inbox for our regular updates and alerts. In the meantime, please feel free to email me anytime if you have questions.

And don’t forget, you can use the legislature’s website to read the full text of bills, find committee meeting schedules, sign up to testify online, or look up your legislators’ contact information: www.wyoleg.gov

Field Notes


Get ready to vote! Wyoming’s general election is Nov. 8. 

Posted on by Alan Rogers

At all levels of government, elected officials in Wyoming make daily decisions that impact our public lands, wildlife, climate, and communities — now and for future generations. And while big-ticket national races tend to get most of the attention, you’re more likely to be directly affected by the work of your local state legislator or county commissioner. 

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, make sure your values are being represented by heading to the polls for Election Day. 

Here’s what you need to know if you’re voting in Wyoming’s 2022 general election: 

  • Double check your polling place. It may have changed recently, or could have been temporarily relocated in 2020 due to the pandemic. CHECK HERE 
  • Bring your ID. Wyoming voters are now required to show a valid form of identification when voting. State, Tribal, military, and Wyoming student ID cards are all acceptable. LEARN MORE
  • Register to vote. You can register at your polling place on Election Day and vote immediately. A poll worker will make sure your registration is up to date. Again, just remember to bring your ID. 
  • Deliver your absentee ballot before polls close. Absentee ballots must be received before the polls close or they will not be counted. If you haven’t mailed your absentee ballot already, you can drop it off in person at your county clerk’s office or designated drop box before polls close at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8. 

Now’s a great time to make a plan to vote and put a reminder on your calendar. For answers to any questions about participating in the election, visit letsvotewyo.org or contact your county clerk’s office. 

Thanks for voting!

Field Notes


The 2021 Wyoming Conservation Vote Report

Posted on by Kristen Gunther

THE 2021 WYOMING CONSERVATION VOTE REPORT

In this year’s general session the Wyoming Legislature considered more than 440 bills, and the Wyoming Outdoor Council tracked more than 50 that were related to wildlife, clean air and water, revenue generation, renewable energy, public lands, and transitions for Wyoming’s energy workforce.

READ THE REPORT

In our 2021 Conservation Vote Report, we broke down eight bills that were of high importance to us (and that received floor votes in the House and/or Senate) to identify how state legislators voted on key conservation issues.

Of course, the interim is already underway and committees are studying topics that may yield new legislation in next year’s session. We’ll continue to keep you informed on key issues that arise and let you know when there are opportunities to get involved.

Field Notes


Conservation bills to watch at the Wyoming Legislature

Posted on by Kristen Gunther

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The Wyoming Legislature has reached a long-awaited milestone: the official start of the four-week, in-person session in Cheyenne. (However, because most of us can’t safely participate in person at the Capitol, the legislature will continue offering options for participating remotely.) 

Now that we’re heading into the heart of the session, we wanted to share some updates on what’s coming up at the legislature and how you can be prepared to get involved.

ROOFTOP SOLAR: STILL IN DANGER

When you last heard from us about SF 16, New net metering systems, we shared that thanks to your participation and the massive public interest in (and opposition to) this bill, it had been bumped to the March session. Though this created additional time to conduct important outreach to legislators and stakeholders statewide, the bill is still alive and we could see it in committee in the coming days.

Sign up for our email alerts, because we’ll let you know the moment we know when we expect to see this bill in House Corporations. This committee meeting will be the last opportunity for legislators to hear testimony directly from Wyomingites about their strong support for rooftop solar and energy independence. We know we’ve already asked a lot, but rest assured that your involvement is making a massive difference. We need your support in this final push to help protect rooftop solar!

PROTECTING PUBLIC LANDS AND WILDLIFE

This week, HB 141, Transfer of federal lands, was officially received for introduction. This marks the upteenth time that a group of Wyoming legislators, flying in the face of public opinion and the will of Wyoming people, has tried to advance the idea of unconstitutionally seizing federal public lands in Wyoming. As in past years, we’ll show up strong — and keep you posted on ways you can raise your voice to oppose this perennial, terrible idea.

We’re also tracking HB 101, Elk feedground closings-requirements. This bill creates a politicized process that the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission would have to follow before being able to close an elk feedground. We’ll be watching and talking to legislators to ensure that Game and Fish is not hindered from making science-based decisions in the best interest of Wyoming wildlife and communities.

The earlier part of the session, by contrast, saw some good news, as funding to support wildlife crossings infrastructure passed in HB 66, Large project funding.

REVENUE, THE BUDGET, AND WYOMING’S ECONOMY 

As the state faces a historic structural shortfall in its budget, the question becomes: Who pays our bills, and how do we cover costs when our traditional revenue sources fall short?

Unfortunately, there is a real reluctance on the part of our legislature to consider sustainable revenue solutions. Though we supported innovative revenue measures over the interim, such as the implementation of a real estate transfer tax on high-dollar properties, to date the legislature has been reluctant to advance new tax proposals. Instead, we’re seeing efforts to double down on our mineral economy in spite of global market trends, as legislators seek to give more tax breaks to oil and gas and oppose the current federal administration’s pause on oil and gas leasing.

Where legislators are considering revenue proposals, they seem to be embraced in a somewhat punitive manner, encouraging raising or levying new taxes on renewable energy. Despite robust economic analyses that show raising these kinds of taxes can actually drive renewable projects to other states rather than generating new revenue, we’ve seen three bills so far embracing this concept (HB 28, HB 94, HB 108). The Wyoming Outdoor Council opposes these proposals; while we aren’t blanket supporters of industrial scale renewables, we also don’t support the state excluding thoughtfully-sited and well-managed renewables projects from our future economy.

We’ll continue advocating strategically for revenue proposals that have the capacity to help us transform and stabilize our state economy for the future — look for more information in the coming weeks. It’s also important to remember that with a budget shortfall come budget cuts. Over the session, we’ll keep our eye on potential budget cuts that could affect Wyoming’s environmental quality and wildlife, in particular programs that protect our right to clean air and water.

STAYING PLUGGED IN THROUGH A CHAOTIC SESSION

Your legislators will be working hard and processing a tremendous volume of information during the fast-paced session, and your perspective is key to helping them make the best decisions possible. In future updates, we’ll highlight important upcoming opportunities for you to get engaged.

And if you have a question or concern about a bill, email us! We are always happy to help and provide the best information we can to ensure you can make your voice heard with our decision makers. That’s what we’re here for!

Thanks for your constant engagement and support, and we’re looking forward to working together throughout the session!

 

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Field Notes


Plug in to the People’s House

Posted on by Kristen Gunther

Each winter, members of the Wyoming Legislature gather in Cheyenne. The halls and side rooms of the (now newly-remodeled) Capitol buzz with conversations between legislators, lobbyists, staff, citizens, and journalists. Committee meetings are often standing room only, and people pack the public galleries above the House and Senate floors. 

Each winter, that is, but this one. Almost a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, Wyoming still has a challenge left to tackle: how to conduct the 66th Wyoming Legislature’s 2021 general session.

The reality that citizens will be able (or, at times, required) to attend the session virtually brings some complications. Some are unique, such as roadblocks to public participation for people without reliable high-speed internet. Other ongoing issues, like the challenging pace of tracking bills, will be magnified. But there are also new opportunities: Virtual legislative meetings have given citizens the opportunity to participate in a meaningful way without having to miss work or drive across the state. And the state is installing video equipment in the Capitol’s legislative meeting rooms, so we hope that the public will have improved access to important committee deliberations.

This year at the legislature, we at the Wyoming Outdoor Council will be continuing our 54-year history of advocacy for public lands, wildlife, clean air and water, and quality of life. And we invite you to do the same! No matter how different this legislative session is, one thing remains unchanged: Your voice matters. 

A HYBRID APPROACH TO THE SESSION

In early January, we finally learned details about the 2021 session. The legislature briefly gaveled in on January 12, just as Frontline was going to press. Committees met the week of January 18, and the full legislature will consider bills that pass out of those committees during an 8-day virtual session January 27 to February 5. Additional committee meetings will be held the week of February 22 and, if COVID-19 restrictions allow, the legislature will reconvene in person for the month of March.

There are only a handful of conservation bills that we know about right now. The most important is a bill sponsored by the Corporations Committee, SF 16, New Net Metering Systems. This bill would effectively kill the small-scale renewable energy sector in Wyoming, including rooftop solar. We will work to oppose this legislation and you can count on us to provide you with more details and action alerts on this topic in the coming weeks. We’re sure we’ll see more wildlife, energy, and environmental quality-related bills arise during the session and will keep you updated. 

Here’s what you should know about testifying to legislative committees online, based on how it worked during the interim. The good news is that, regardless of whether you’re at the Capitol or on your couch, you can be a voice for conservation in Wyoming by following the same basic approach.

SIGN UP. Committee meeting schedules are available at www.wyoleg.gov. To sign up, click the “Testify” button next to the scheduled meeting.  The button will take you to a form to register for that specific committee and meeting date. 

GET INSTRUCTIONS FROM LSO. You’ll receive an email from the Legislative Service Office with information about how to join the meeting. 

PREPARE YOUR TESTIMONY. Outdoor Council staff are always happy to offer advice if you aren’t sure where to start. More on this below!

LISTEN IN. When the meeting starts, you can join using the link provided by the LSO. You’ll enter the meeting as a webinar attendee.  It’s always good to show up early so that you are aware of the committee’s discussion prior to the public comment opportunity. When public comment is announced, you will have the option to indicate you wish to make a comment. And when it is your turn to speak, you will be able to turn your camera and audio on so that the committee can see and hear you. Make sure your Zoom profile displays your full name. 

BE STRATEGIC WITH SIGN UPS. If there’s a topic of interest to you that you may want to weigh in on, go ahead and sign up to testify. You can always decide not to comment. 

TIPS FOR TESTIFYING

GET COMFORTABLE WITH THE PROCESS. If you’re able, attend or listen to committee meetings before your bill is discussed to get a feel for the members and their priorities. Most importantly, sitting in will help you feel more confident when it’s your turn.

IT HELPS IF YOU CAN BRING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE. Your case will be more compelling if you introduce a new perspective or find a new way to make a point instead of repeating comments that have already been made. Explain how you, or values important to you, will be impacted. 

HAVE AN ELEVATOR PITCH. You might be asked to limit your testimony if there are a large number of people speaking. Be prepared to make your point in under three minutes. 

IT’S OK TO BE NERVOUS! Citizen speakers have far more clout with legislators than paid lobbyists. These elected officials see the professionals often, but authentic citizen voices can be rare, so you’ll get special attention. Remember, however, to always be respectful in your demeanor and comments.

TIPS FOR WRITING AN EFFECTIVE EMAIL

Sending an email to your legislator only takes a minute or two and can be a meaningful way to connect. But make sure it’s personal: If a group provides you with a pre-written form email, ignore it and write your own message. 

During the interim, legislators may benefit from a detailed letter or email to help them understand your position on an issue. That’s not the case during the session — there simply aren’t enough hours in the day and legislators get hundreds of emails. To ensure your message gets read, keep it brief, straightforward, and respectful.

We suggest this three-sentence formula:

Introduce yourself and make a connection. (This is important to legislators who will read the first line and possibly discard the message if they think it’s a form email.)

State the position you want them to take (i.e. to oppose or support the legislation) and provide the title or subject of the bill as well as the bill number.

Explain why. Cite your personal experience or values. 

Example:
“Hi Rep. Jones, I live in Sheridan and recently installed solar panels on my shop. I’m writing to ask you to please vote no on SF 16, the net metering bill. This bill would unfairly raise my utility costs and punish hard-working people like me who have invested in rooftop solar.” 

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Your legislators work long and hard on behalf of their constituents, but they can’t represent your values if they don’t hear from you. Whether you email your senator, testify to a committee, or offer to meet your representative for a cup of coffee once you’re able to do so safely, you can help give them the information and insight they need to be effective. 

If you haven’t already done so, please take a moment to register for Outdoor Council email alerts by visiting www.wyomingoutdoorcouncil.org/signup. Like always, we’ll send timely updates about the legislature and let you know when you need to take action on a particular bill. And please reach out to our staff if you’d like any help preparing testimony or have questions:

Steff Kessler
stephanie@wyomingoutdoorcouncil.org
Kristen Gunther
kristen@wyomingoutdoorcouncil.org

See you at the legislature!

Field Notes


Field Notes: January updates from the Wyoming Outdoor Council

Posted on by Alan Rogers

AMENDED NET METERING BILL ADVANCES

Thank you, members, for your phenomenal engagement with the Senate Corporations Committee to protect our rooftop solar industry and oppose SF 16 — the latest attempt to remove or weaken Wyoming’s net metering law.

The chair of the committee noted that they received “about 1,000” emails regarding this bill. As usual, only utility companies supported this legislation. The rest of those testifying at Tuesday’s meeting, including representatives from local governments, solar installers, and the general public, spoke out against SF 16 and highlighted the many benefits of this small-scale renewable industry for our state.

The committee voted to delete the most egregious part of this bill, and changed timelines to be more reasonable, but then voted to move the bill forward to the legislature’s virtual session next week. We still have grave concerns about the bill, because it requires a study by the Wyoming Public Service Commission that is biased against net metering, and does not consider the benefits of small-scale solar. We will keep you informed of what can be done next. Thank you again for the tremendous support — you were heard!

VIRTUAL LEGISLATURE GETS UNDERWAY

Last week marked the beginning of the very unusual 2021 Wyoming state legislative session. You might have noticed that, unlike most years, you didn’t get a weekly recap email. That’s because this year, to cope with the many logistical obstacles that the COVID-19 pandemic poses to running a normal session, the state legislature is breaking the legislative calendar up into several parts. Between January and the end of March, you can expect to hear from us on bills that are moving — and where we need your help. You can find our guide to the legislature and more resources here.

This week, House and Senate committees are meeting remotely over Zoom to consider bills that were worked on by joint committees over the interim and assigned to one chamber or the other. Bills that pass committee will move on to the full chamber during an 8-day virtual session between January 27 and February 5.

However, the work won’t be over. After the virtual session is wrapped, the legislature will reconvene, either virtually or in person, for the month of March. Any bills that are still alive at the end of the 8-day virtual session, but haven’t yet been passed by both chambers, will return at that time. We expect to see lots of new bills considered, too.

If this sounds confusing, we understand! The legislative session is always chaotic and tumultuous, and we are expecting this year to be even more so as we navigate the many ups, downs, and “what ifs” of trying to communicate with a legislature that is meeting both in person and remotely. Throughout this disjointed session we will keep you informed about what you can expect and where your voices are most critical for protecting the Wyoming conservation values we cherish most.

Field Notes


Despite public outcry, Wyoming’s net metering law will again be on the chopping block

Posted on by John Burrows

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Last week, we asked many of you to speak up at the Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Corporations Committee meeting and oppose a bill that would have undercut rooftop solar and small scale renewables in this state. And wow‚ that’s exactly what you did. The impact of your letters, calls, emails, and testimony was undeniable. The committee heard you. Because of you, the bill was dead upon arrival.

But, as many of you know, things at the legislature can change quickly and often unexpectedly. After the committee acknowledged that the votes were not there to pass the original bill, several members pulled the rug out from under the discussion by making a motion to substitute that bill with entirely different language and intentions. No one, including some members of the committee, saw this coming, and apart from a brief screen-share of a private document, the new bill was not even publicly available.

To the many members of the public who had taken time out of their day to participate — some of them taking time out of work — this was a shockingly sneaky maneuver. The last minute bill swap undermined the ability of the public to meaningfully weigh in on the topic while pushing through these committee members’ own agenda on net metering.

Consider for a moment, that the committee hadn’t been assigned net metering as an interim topic, and that the interim is supposed to be a time for thoughtful consideration of complex issues that require public input. Voting to advance a bill that neither the public or many members of the committee had ever seen before flies in the face of that. For those of you who spent time preparing testimony on the original bill that was not even considered, we are sorry.

We’re also sorry that after nearly three and a half hours of public testimony overwhelmingly against changing our existing net metering law, the committee decided to advance the new bill to the 2021 legislative session. This new bill charges the Public Service Commission to study net metering and set new rates and conditions for customers who currently have net-metered systems. The problem is this new bill leaps to the conclusion that net-metered customers are being subsidized by other ratepayers in Wyoming. This is not necessarily true. By thinking about net metering only as a “subsidy,” without also directing the Public Service Commission to consider the economic, social, and environmental that this policy generates, this bill’s narrow focus will make rooftop solar more expensive and kill jobs in this growing sector of our economy.

So what comes next? We believe that rooftop solar and small scale renewables can and should play an important part in diversifying our state’s economy and helping us address growing concerns about carbon emissions and climate change. The Wyoming Outdoor Council, along with a large coalition of solar and renewable energy supporters, will continue working on this issue and preparing for its appearance at the 2021 legislative session. Stay tuned as there will be plenty of opportunities to defeat or amend this bill. This fight is not over.

In the meantime, there are some real heroes on the committee that questioned and fought for the integrity of the public process that could use recognition and a quick thank you. Senator Tara Nethercott, in particular, was a passionate defender against the tactics we saw used last Wednesday. If you have a moment, we would encourage you to send a thank you to her and the other four members of the committee listed below who appreciate the value of public process, and who voted not to move any legislation forward under such circumstances.

Sen. Tara Nethercott
Tara.Nethercott@wyoleg.gov, 307.399.7696
Rep. Dan Furphy
Dan.Furphy@wyoleg.gov, 307. 760.0148
Rep. Shelly Duncan
Shelly.Duncan@wyoleg.gov,  307.575.2894
Rep. Andi Clifford
Andrea.Clifford@wyoleg.gov, 307.840.4327
Rep. Jim Blackburn
Jim.Blackburn@wyoleg.gov, 307.514.4318

 

 

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Field Notes


Say “Thanks” to your legislators who worked for conservation

Posted on by Steff Kessler

Wyoming’s legislative session wrapped two weeks ago after tremendous work from your legislators, who had to address hundreds of bills while also crafting the state’s budget for the next two years. As they made the important decisions required to move the state forward, they made time for personal conversations and testimony from us and numerous stakeholders, and engaged with citizens over phone and email. It’s a big job — and, since Wyoming has a citizen legislature, they do it all as volunteers.

Your legislators put in an incredible amount of work, especially during the fast-paced budget session. Please join us in expressing your thanks! The button below will take you to a form where you can draft an email that will go to your senator and representative. Please  personalize the message!

THANK YOUR REPS!


The session provides us with a direct opportunity to see legislators hard at work, and we at the Outdoor Council try often to give our personal thanks. But it’s also important to take the time to thank the legislators who made a significant difference this year. 

HEROES OF THE SENATE

We would like to thank Chairman Bill Landen (Casper) and the Senate Corporations committee for their work stewarding Senate File 36, Large scale solar and wind energy facilities, through multiple long nights and complex negotiations with stakeholders. This bill creates an important first step toward a more comprehensive approach to siting industrial solar and wind facilities — a topic we hope to carry forward into future sessions! Thanks to this entire committee for their depth of work and engagement on this issue. We’d like to thank each Senator by name due to the extraordinary work that this bill entailed!

  • Sen. Wendy Schuler (Evanston)
  • Sen. Cale Case (Lander)
  • Sen. Charlie Scott (Casper)
  • Sen. Tara Nethercott (Cheyenne) 

HEROES OF THE HOUSE

This year, we’d like to thank Chairman Mike Greear (Worland) and the House Minerals committee for their commitment to transparency, wise stewardship of resources, and extensive work over the interim. While we don’t see eye to eye with the committee on all issues, we have found that House Minerals prioritizes public process, due diligence, and having detailed, thoughtful discussions about each issue before them. We found this committee’s work and discussions on House Bill 13, Sage grouse mitigation credits (a vital bill that codifies a key part of the state’s sage grouse strategy) and Senate File 110 (a bill that would have analyzed the private property value of all public lands in Wyoming) to be particularly thoughtful. Thank you!

NEW CONSERVATION LOBBYISTS OF THE YEAR

We have two conservation lobbyists to thank this year as relative newcomers to the legislative session. Jenny DeSarro (Cody) from the Greater Yellowstone Coalition is a seasoned advocate who’s no stranger to the legislature, but this year came down for her first lengthy stint lobbying for GYC. Her work ethic and the quality of her engagement were tremendous. We would also like to recognize Liz Rose (Cheyenne) from Trout Unlimited, who came on board shortly before the session and made a powerful impression on legislators and lobbyists alike. Her work to represent TU’s many members on all issues related to fisheries was exemplary. 

THANKS TO THESE LEGISLATIVE LEADERS

  • The leadership of the House of Representatives, especially House Majority Floor Leader Eric Barlow (Gillette) and Speaker Pro Tempore Albert Sommers (Pinedale), for offering sage advice and assistance. 
  • We would also like to thank Rep. Sommers for his service on the Appropriations committee, and his work to ensure that the Department of Environmental Quality had adequate funding to monitor and safeguard air quality in the Upper Green River Basin. Thanks as well to Rep. Andy Schwartz (Jackson) for his work on this same committee, his helpful advice, and his efforts to improve a bill focused on Teton County state lands parcels. 
  • Rep. Cyrus Western (Sheridan), Sen. Fred Baldwin (Kemmerer), and Sen. Cale Case (Lander) for their work bringing budget amendments to the House and Senate, respectively, to increase funding in the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resources Trust to support wildlife crossings work. Thanks to their advocacy, $3 million of additional funding for crossings is included in this year’s budget. 
  • Chairman Eric Barlow (Gillette) and Chairman Drew Perkins (Casper) for their powerful work leading the Select Committee on Coal/Mineral Bankruptcies, which brought several critical bills that address the impact of energy economy transitions in Wyoming communities — especially the impact on workers. We also want to recognize Rep. Scott Clem and Sen. Michael Von Flatern (both of Gillette) for their strong work vocalizing the importance of bills from this committee that will be vital to their constituents. 
  • Rep. Mike Yin (Jackson) for his work to advocate for the future of outdoor recreation in the state, and for being a thoughtful voice on the House floor. 
  • Chairman Tyler Lindholm (Sundance) for his strong leadership in successfully shepherding Senate File 36 on industrial siting of wind and solar facilities through the House. 
  • Joint Agriculture Chairmen Sen. Brian Boner (Douglas) and Rep. Hans Hunt (Newcastle) for stewarding an important topic related to public access to state and federal lands via private-state land exchanges. We are grateful that this topic will be addressed by agency rulemaking. We would also like to thank these chairmen for continuing to lead on the topics of stranded state parcels.
  • Rep. Stan Blake (Green River) for being a consistent voice advocating for Wyoming wildlife, and for his work promoting worker and community safety in the public interest.
  • Rep. Sandy Newsome (Cody) for being a leader looking toward Wyoming’s future, for speaking up for the value of outdoor recreation in communities, and for her commitment to transparency and communication. 
  • Sen. Cale Case (Lander) and Sen. Chris Rothfuss (Laramie) for leading spirited, important floor debate on issues related to wildlife and Wyoming’s energy future. 
  • Rep. Shelly Duncan (Lingle) and Sen. Wendy Schuler (Evanston) for their work on the House Minerals committee and on the floor of the Senate, respectively, raising important questions about Senate File 110 and speaking to the value of wildlife and Wyoming’s outdoor heritage.  
  • Sen. Larry Hicks (Baggs) for standing up for big game, and for always being willing to explain his point of view, even when we agree to disagree. 
  • Rep. Jim Roscoe (Wilson/Alpine) for his work to encourage transparency in the management of state lands and for his thoughtful engagement on the floor. 
  • Sen. Liisa Anselmi-Dalton (Rock Springs) for being a strong advocate for Sweetwater County, and for her consistent support of wildlife and public lands.

AND FINALLY, SPECIAL THANKS TO …

  • Governor Mark Gordon and his policy staff, with whom we met regularly throughout the session. While we didn’t always agree, we appreciated the frank, open-door conversations, and our mutual work to find understanding and common ground. Extra special thanks to Bob Budd, director of the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resources Trust, for his work as a stalwart advocate for our state’s wildlife and people. Thank you all for your leadership and commitment to the people of this state. 
  • The dedicated agency staff who put in long hours engaging and providing information to the legislature as they work on critical statewide issues. Your service is vital and much appreciated. 
  • Our five incredible citizen interns: Jorge Moreno (Lander), Lynne Huskinson (Gillette), Colleen Whalen and Joe Slack (Lander), and Elizabeth Traver (Laramie). Thanks for your incredible dedication, enthusiasm, and high-quality work. It was a pleasure to work with you and each of you made a difference. 
  • Partners, collaborators, allies, fellow advocates, and other interest groups. At the legislature, the importance of working together and listening to each others’ points of view can’t be overstated. In addition to conservation and sportsmen’s groups, some of our best work gets done when we sit down with groups from a wide range of interests. We don’t always find ourselves on the same side, but we always show respect to each other and seek mutual understanding. This session, we want to thank the following groups for your hard work, willingness to share your perspectives and ideas (and sometimes a cup of coffee) with us, and commitment to representing your members: 
    • Wyoming County Commissioners Association
    • Wyoming Outfitters and Guides Association
    • Wyoming Stock Growers Association 
    • Wyoming Mining Association
    • Wyoming School Board Association 
    • Wyoming AFL-CIO
    • Wyoming League of Women Voters 
    • Civics307
    • Wyoming Education Association
    • Equality State Policy Center (and all our ESPC partners)

And to the conservation and sportsmen’s groups that worked to represent Wyoming conservation values throughout the session: 

  • Wyoming Wildlife Federation
  • Trout Unlimited
  • Greater Yellowstone Coalition 
  • Powder River Basin Resource Council 
  • The Nature Conservancy of Wyoming

Finally, and most importantly, thanks to YOU, our members and supporters. We could not achieve success at the legislature or advocate your conservation values without the enduring support that you provide. Thank you for your engagement.