Wyoming Legislature update – April 1, 2021
by Albert Sommers, House District #20 Representative
April 1, 2021
4-1-2021
Hello Sublette County, this is Albert Sommers reporting to you from Cheyenne on April 1, 2021. Today on 3rd Reading, the House passed 8 bills, including, SF0114, State land leases, which updates the law on how vacant state land will be leased. State land is generally leased for commodity purposes, like grazing, and there is a process that allows for a preference to a current lease holder for the next period of the lease. However, what happens if the lessee abandons the state lease, and this vacant lease needs to be issued to a new lease holder? SF114 would give preference to an adjacent landowner of the vacant state land. I supported this bill, because an adjacent landowner can be impacted by whomever is awarded the vacant state lease, so I believe they should have preference.
One bill died on 3rd Reading, SF0004, Airport districts, which would have allowed county commissioners the authority to create a special district for the purpose of funding an airport. I supported the bill, because airports are critical for community economic development.
Today, in Committee of the Whole, the House passed several Senate files, including, SF0076, Broadband development program - amendments, which updates an existing state broadband program. This bill would allow state money to be utilized for "middle mile" projects, such as a fiber project between two communities. The bill would also allow a state agency to partner with a broadband provider to develop a project. Fast, reliable broadband is key to the economic future of this state. I was a co-sponsor of this bill.
Also passing COW today was SF0127, Wyoming learn while you earn program. This bill allows school districts, community colleges and businesses to explore a Career Technical Education program that is based upon a student learning while they work. The student would earn credits towards a credential program while working and earning wages from a business. I think this is an outstanding way for a student to learn a trade while getting paid and receiving credits. I am a co-sponsor of this bill.
More information about these bills and many more can be found at https://wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2021
I can be reached at albert@albertsommers.com with questions or comments.
Thank you.
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