Feb. 6 - 7 63rd Wyoming Legislature - Budget session Page 2 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016

We welcome your feedback Welcome to our annual guide to the Wyoming WHAT’S INSIDE Legislature. Each year, we strive to provide information that you, our readers, need to participate as active citizens in the lawmaking 4-7 BILLS TO WATCH process. If you have feedback on this guide, including ways we can improve it next 8 HOW A BILL BECOMES LAW year, please contact me at 307-633-3118 or [email protected]. Index WANT TO ATTEND A MEETING? 9 – Brian Martin, section editor MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD 9 By Trevor Brown 10-11 Staff credits LEGISLATURE WEBSITE GUIDE Wyoming Tribune Eagle This section was produced by the Wyoming SEATING CHARTS, MAP, SCHEDULE 12-13 Tribune Eagle under the direction of Managing Spend enough time Editor Brian Martin, bmartin@wyoming around some of Wyo- 14-23 ISSUES, LAWMAKERS IN YOUR AREA news.com, and designed by Kiah Staley. Cover ming’s senior legislators photo by Hugh Carey. Reporting was done by the 14-17 and you are bound to CHEYENNE/LARAMIE COUNTY staffs of the Wyoming Tribune Eagle, Laramie hear about the energy Boomerang, Rawlins Daily Times and Rock Springs ROCK SPRINGS 18-20 bust of the 1980s and the Rocket-Miner. lean years that followed in the 1990s. RAWLINS 21 ©2016 APG Media of the Rockies. Printed and published by Wyoming Tribune Eagle, “The last time we had a bust, we didn’t do any- LARAMIE 22-23 702 W. Lincolnway, Cheyenne, WY 82001 thing for years,” said Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, who co-chairs the Legislature’s Joint Appropriations Commit- tee. “There was no capital construction, Proud to be a continuing supporter & contributor to this community & its economy. major maintenance or anything. We’re proud of our people & proud to be part of Wyoming. “That lasted for years. And, boy, did we have to play catch up afterward.” Our mission is to be the premier U.S. petroleum refining and logistics company. Fast forward a couple decades and Wyoming is staring at another poten- tially long and painful economic downturn. Natural gas prices – when adjusted for infla- tion – have been at historically low prices for the past several months. And oil markets continue to flounder as new drilling activity largely has stalled throughout the state. Meanwhile, the coal industry, once the foun- dation of the state’s reve- nue base, is battling against the headwinds of Wyoming looming environmental regulations and changes in the nation’s energy strategy. hollyfrontier.com • 307-634-3551 • Cheyenne It’s hard to overstate the importance of energy February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 3 BUDGETING DURING A BUST Lawmakers prepare spending plan as energy sector slumps Intro

By Trevor Brown to the state’s revenue governor’s 2017-18 bud- are prompted by warn- and infrastructure proj- Wyoming Tribune Eagle picture. get recommendations is ings that the state’s ects throughout the state Wyoming gets almost his plan to use about $450 school foundation ac- are all at risk of getting Spend enough time three-fourths of its reve- million from the rainy- count will face a multi- fewer funds than normal. around some of Wyo- nues from mineral taxes, day fund to pay for a hundred million dollar But one thing Mead ming’s senior legislators giving it one of the most range of projects. These shortfall in the 2019-20 and many top lawmakers and you are bound to volatile revenue bases in include providing aid to budget cycle. agree on is that Wyoming hear about the energy the country. local governments and And then there will be can’t afford to panic or address. bust of the 1980s and the This is shown clearly funding road and build- competition and debate shut down over the bud- “We are can- lean years that followed in the state’s latest reve- ing projects. over where to spend the get fears. in the 1990s. nue projections. But Mead says he limited money that is “The journey to build do folks, no matter the “The last time we had a For the upcoming two- wants to just “borrow” available. for the future must con- circumstances, and I am bust, we didn’t do any- year budget period, the the rainy-day funds. He Wyoming’s cities, tinue – that’s the Wyo- confident we can do the thing for years,” said general fund and reserve would backfill that towns and counties, the ming way,” Mead said at right budget for right Rep. Steve Harshman, account revenues – money by changing a law University of Wyoming the close of his budget now.” R-Casper, who co-chairs known collectively as the that requires 1 percent of the Legislature’s Joint state’s “traditional mineral tax revenues to Appropriations Commit- funds” – are expected to flow into the state’s Per- tee. “There was no be more than half a billion manent Mineral Trust capital construction, dollars less than the cur- Fund. major maintenance or rent 2015-16 biennium. Still, the question will anything. But as Gov. Matt Mead be how much lawmakers “That lasted for and lawmakers prepare want to cut, save and QUESTIONS ON years. And, boy, did we to tackle the state’s spend. have to play catch up spending plan for the Those questions are afterward.” next two years, they say likely to dominate this LEGISLATIVE ISSUES? Fast forward a couple the situation is much dif- year’s 20-day budget ses- decades and Wyoming is ferent than previous sion that is set to run until staring at another poten- downturns. the first week of March. Our policy sta is here to help tially long and painful “It has been bad news Mead’s budget largely economic downturn. since October,” Harsh- avoids cuts to state agen- you understand the biggest issues Natural gas prices – man said. “But the key cies or other programs. when adjusted for infla- thing is we have saved “I do not believe that tion – have been at and we have options.” across-the-board cuts Wyoming legislators face now historically low prices The biggest difference can deliver the meaning- for the past several between now and the ful savings or that they and in the future. months. And oil markets past is the Legislative are prudent,” Mead said continue to flounder as Stabilization Reserve in his budget address. “If new drilling activity Account, more common- we are to reduce stan- Call 307-632-7020 largely has stalled ly known as the LSRA, or dard budget expendi- throughout the state. just the rainy-day fund. tures, we need to You can follow our work at Meanwhile, the coal The Legislature has evaluate agency pro- www.wyliberty.org industry, once the foun- continuously socked grams and eliminate Subscribe to our weekly supporter dation of the state’s reve- away money into the ac- those that are a lower nue base, is battling count since it was creat- priority.” update on our website. against the headwinds of ed in the mid-2000s. And But some lawmakers – Listen LIVE on the following stations: looming environmental it largely has been un- eyeing the potential for regulations and changes touched as it has grown more economic woes in Cheyenne KGAB 650am - Every other Fri at 8am in the nation’s energy to more than $1.8 billion. the coming years – are Founding Principles Casper KVOC 1230am - Tues—urs at 4pm strategy. But that could change likely to push for greater Guiding Innovative Solutions It’s hard to overstate this year. cuts. Bold Republic Radio - Every urs at 2pm the importance of energy A cornerstone of the Many of those fears Page 4 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016

ASSET FORFEITURE K-12 FUNDING TOBACCO One of the more contentious issues Looming funding problems for Wyo- SETTLEMENT CUTS from last year’s legislative session will ming’s K-12 education system will be a return this year. hot topic this legislative session. Several health and corrections pro- The Joint Judiciary Interim Com- A recent University of Wyoming re- grams could see their budgets slashed as mittee is sponsoring a bill that would port estimates the School Facilities De- the state faces a shortfall in its tobacco reform the state’s asset forfeiture laws. partment, which is in charge of K-12 settlement funds. Unlike a bill that was vetoed by Gov. major maintenance and new construc- A trust fund set up after a 1999 settle- Bills to Matt Mead last year, the proposal tion, will face a $771.3 million spending ment with tobacco companies helps watch would not end the state’s civil forfei- gap between 2017 and 2022. fund a number of state programs that ture policy. This comes as coal-lease bonus pay- focus on substance abuse, health issues This allows police and prosecutors to ments, which largely pay for these proj- and tobacco cessation. confiscate property, including vehi- ects, are drying up. The account has historically generat- cles or cash, as long as law enforce- Meanwhile, the downturn in the ed about $50 million per biennium. But ment reasonably believes it is linked to state’s energy sector is expected to im- the state is only projected to receive a drug crime. pact property tax revenues, which are a about $37.8 million for the upcoming But the legislation would place addi- key K-12 funding source, in the coming two-year cycle. tional hurdles for law enforcement to years. To address the shortfall, Gov. Matt jump over before it would be able to Gov. Matt Mead is recommending Mead is recommending cuts for many of seize the property. lawmakers convene a “blue ribbon” the agencies that have received this Among the changes is a requirement task force to look at potential solutions. funding. that a hearing be held in circuit court But many lawmakers say they might This includes: within 30 days of the seizure to deter- have to act sooner.  $7.4 million from the Department of mine whether probable cause existed “I think the longer we wait, then our Health for the property to be seized. options start running out,” said Rep.  $2.9 million from the Department of An additional hearing within 120 Steve Harshman, R-Casper, during a Corrections KNOW YOUR days of the seizure would be required Joint Appropriations Committee bud-  $1.6 million from the Department of LEGISLATURE before the property is forfeited to the get hearing in December. Family Services TERMINOLOGY state. Options for lawmakers to consider in-  $42,000 from the Attorney General’s Office Act The proposal also issues a number of clude diverting mineral tax revenues guidelines for courts to use in deter- that currently flow into savings, finding One of the biggest cuts would come A bill passed by mining whether a forfeiture is “grossly cuts throughout the state’s budget or from the Department of Health’s Court both chambers disproportionate” to the suspected raising taxes. Supervised Treatment Program, which of the Legislature crime. But Mead said he is not ready to sup- offers sentencing alternatives to indi- and signed by the The bill that would have ended civil port any tax increases. viduals with substance-abuse problems. governor. asset forfeiture altogether passed both “I believe it’s the wrong time to do The governor’s plan would cut the pro- the House and Senate in 2015. that, not that I don’t think there’s an gram’s funding from $8.5 million to Adjourn But Mead used a rare veto to block issue that needs to be dealt with,” he $3.7 million for the biennium. Used to close each the bill. said while presenting his budget to the The Legislature’s Joint Revenue day’s session with The Senate attempted to override JAC in December. “But I think the Committee briefly considered a propos- intent to resume on the governor’s veto. But only seven of greatest burden of any increase would al this fall to increase the state’s tobacco a given date and the 30 members supported that move. be put upon the industries that are tax to help reduce the need for cuts. time. The Joint Judiciary Interim Com- struggling now.” Wyoming’s 60-cent tax on a pack of mittee considered sponsoring a simi- The governor is recommending the cigarettes is among the lowest in the Adjourn lar bill for this year’s session. state prioritize maintenance projects country. A number of health advocates sine die But its members rejected that instead of building as many new schools called on the committee to raise the tax proposal and decided to advance the during the next two years. by $1 per pack. A motion at the end bill that would reform the practices His budget includes a school facilities However, the panel decided against of the legislative instead. budget of $218.9 million. Of that sponsoring a bill for this session. session to adjourn It is possible, however, that an individ- “without date” for amount, $118.5 million is for major – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle maintenance. ual lawmaker could still sponsor a pro- resumption. posal to raise the state’s tobacco tax. Key lawmakers: – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle Adoption – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle  Sen. Leland Christensen, R-Alta, chairman of Approval or Key lawmakers: the Senate Judiciary Committee, 307-353-8204, Key lawmakers: acceptance; [email protected].  Sen. Hank Coe, R-Cody, chairman of the usually applied Senate Education Committee, 307-587-4655,  Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, chairman  Rep. David Miller, R-Riverton, chairman of the to amendments [email protected]. of the Senate Appropriations Committee, or resolutions. House Judiciary Committee, 307-857-5789, 307-632-8957, [email protected]. [email protected].  Rep. David Northrup, R-Powell, chairman of the House Education Committee, 307-754-2190,  Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, chairman [email protected]. of the House Appropriations Committee, 307-262-8075, [email protected]. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 5

MEDICAID STATE BUILDING PRIVACY BILLS EXPANSION PROJECTS A legislative proposal would add pri- vacy and open-government protections Lawmakers have defeated Medicaid This year’s legislative session will pro- to Wyoming’s Constitution. expansion proposals in each of the past vide an ever-present reminder of the The Joint Corporations, Elections and three legislative sessions. $300 million project to renovate the State Political Subdivisions Interim Commit- But Gov. Matt Mead is calling on the Capitol and the adjacent Herschler tee voted this fall to sponsor a bill that, if Legislature to reconsider its opposition Building. passed, would put the proposed constitu- Bills to to the proposal that would extend health Lawmakers will hold the 2016, 2017 tional changes on the 2016 general elec- coverage to about 20,000 low-income and 2018 sessions in a temporary loca- tion ballot. watch residents. tion at the Jonah Business Center – about The proposal states that individual Wyoming is one of 29 states that have three miles east of the Capitol – while the privacy is “essential to the well-being of rejected the optional expansion. Mead work is being done. a free society and shall not be infringed said this is causing Wyoming to lose out Some lawmakers have suggested without the showing of a compelling on hundreds of millions of federal dol- postponing the project as price overages state interest.” lars that could be used to offset rising and other issues have come up over the It goes on to say that the amendment costs in the Health Department budget. past year. “will not deprive a person of any right The state estimates that accepting the But Gov. Matt Mead said he wants to provided by law to examine documents expansion would bring in $268.4 million see the project continue. He is proposing or to observe the deliberations of an over two years. to use $37.5 million in rainy-day funds to agency or political subdivision of the “These dollars would be spent on hos- complete repayment of the money that state, except in cases in which the de- pitals, doctors, nursing homes, mental was borrowed from the Permanent mand of individual privacy clearly ex- health centers and other providers locat- Wyoming Mineral Trust Fund for the ceeds the merits of public disclosure.” ed in communities across the state,” project. Lawmakers originally considered a Mead wrote in his budget proposal. Mead also is proposing that a number version of the bill that didn’t include the The state further expects that the ex- of other state building projects receive open-government protections. But the pansion would free up general fund funding in his two-year budget plan. extra provision was added after press KNOW YOUR money that the state is already spending This includes $65.2 million for major and government transparency advo- LEGISLATURE on legislatively mandated health pro- maintenance projects throughout the cates argued the amendment could be TERMINOLOGY grams for residents in need. state and $6.9 million for a new Depart- used to prevent public information, such At ease These offsets would allow the depart- ment of Forestry building in Cheyenne. as criminal records of public officials, ment to self-fund the $16.4 million The governor also is seeking to partial- from being released. An announcement that would be the state’s share of the ly fund several projects that would need If the Legislature approves the bill – from the chairman expansion. additional funding in the coming years. and voters accept it – it would make indicating a It also would produce enough savings He is asking for $10 million this Wyoming one of the few states in the na- short break. to more than cover the health depart- session for a new state office building tion with privacy protections in their ment’s $23.7 million in exception re- in Casper, which would carry a total constitutions. Bill quests for the 2017-18 budget. price tag of between $37 million and Supporters say the amendment is A proposed law, But there remains strong opposition to $44 million. needed because there is no explicit pri- introduced during the expansion in the Republican-domi- The state also is looking at long-term vacy protections in the state’s Constitu- a session for nated Legislature. Several lawmakers projects to renovate the State Hospital in tion and little protections on specific consideration by the say they fear the federal government Evanston and the Wyoming Life Re- issues in statutes. Legislature. Called a will eventually hike the states’ share of source Center in Lander. A similar proposal – but without the file in the Senate costs for the expansion group. It is estimated that the two projects open-government protections – was con- (House Bill 101, The success of the proposal could de- would cost about $155 million. Mead is sidered during the 2015 session. It failed Senate File 101). pend on how supporters seek to pass the recommending the Legislature add $10 on a 17-13 vote in the Senate. expansion this year. million this session to a fund that is ear- The Legislature will consider several Calendar A standalone bill would require a two- marked for state-run health facilities other bills related to residents’ digital A daily listing thirds majority vote for the proposal to projects. privacy rights this session. showing bills ready be introduced. Or lawmakers could seek The governor’s budget also calls for for action. to include the expansion in the 2017-18 $25 million to repair structural issues at – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle budget bill, which isn’t subject to the the Wyoming State Penitentiary in Call of the two-thirds requirement. Rawlins. Key lawmakers: House or – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle  Sen. Chris Rothfuss, D-Laramie, co-chairman Senate of the Task Force on Digital Information Action compelling Key lawmakers: Key lawmakers: Privacy, 307-399-3556, Chris.Rothfuss@ all members to be wyoleg.gov. present in the  Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, chairman  Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, chairman chamber. of the Senate Appropriations Committee, of the Senate Appropriations Committee,  Rep. Mary Throne, D-Cheyenne, 307-632-8957, [email protected]. 307-632-8957, [email protected]. co-chairwoman of the Task Force on Digital Information Privacy, 307-630-6728, COLA  Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, chairman  Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, chairman [email protected]. Cost-of-living of the House Appropriations Committee, of the House Appropriations Committee, adjustment. 307-262-8075, [email protected]. 307-262-8075, [email protected]. Page 6 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 7

ECONOMIC UW, COMMUNITY FUNDS FOR LOCAL DIVERSIFICATION COLLEGE FUNDING GOVERNMENT The downturn in the energy markets is The University of Wyoming and the Wyoming’s revenue problems will a reminder of how important oil, gas and state’s community college system could likely trickle down to the state’s cities, coal revenues are to Wyoming. see cuts after this legislative session. towns and counties. But Gov. Matt Mead and other state of- Gov. Matt Mead’s proposed budget Gov. Matt Mead’s 2017-18 biennium ficials want Wyoming to be less reliant for the upcoming two-year cycle calls budget proposal provides just $90 mil- Bills to on the energy industry. for reducing UW’s nearly $320 million lion in state aid to be split among the Several proposals this legislative ses- block grant from the state by $5 million. local governments for the next two watch sion would do this by strengthening the UW President Dick McGinity told years. state’s tourism and technology sectors. lawmakers this fall that the university That is not even half of the $183 mil- This includes Mead’s plan to boost the has been able to shield academic pro- lion that the localities are scheduled to Wyoming Tourism Board’s funding for grams from budget reductions in past receive for the current biennium. the next two years. years. But he said that might not be the The governor said this area is a pri- The state agency has a standard case this time if the proposed cuts are ority of his, and he would like to add budget of nearly $25 million per bienni- accepted. more funds. But he said the $90 million um. But the governor is supporting an The governor’s plan also rejects UW’s is all the state can do – for now, at least. exception request that would use $5 mil- request for staff and faculty pay in- “As the state tightens its belt, so too lion in general funds to help sustain and creases – the top exception request for must local governments,” Mead wrote expand the Tourism Board’s marketing the university. in his budget message to lawmakers in campaigns. Mead also wants to use $3 million in Mead’s budget, however, does rec- December. “At the same time, we un- rainy-day funds to expand Wyoming’s ommend approval of nearly $70 million derstand the importance of continuing international tourism marketing efforts. in other UW exception requests. forward with services, infrastructure “Tourism provides economic diversi- This includes $38.5 million for cam- investment and economic drivers. ty and much-needed revenue,” Mead pus science and engineering facilities, “We must continue to invest in our KNOW YOUR wrote in his budget message to lawmak- $11.5 million for the university’s match- communities and to ensure that any LEGISLATURE ers. “It offers a broad spectrum of job ing funds program and $8 million to plan addresses the needs of cities, TERMINOLOGY opportunities.” help boost UW’s athletic programs. towns and counties.” Committee Meanwhile, several legislative pro- Like UW, community colleges also Richard Ladwig, president of the posals seek to help Wyoming’s growing could see cuts from the state. Wyoming County Commissioners As- of the Whole high-tech industry. Mead is recommending a new fund- sociation, said local governments are A committee of the Mead announced in the fall that he ing formula backed by the Wyoming facing many of the same budget prob- entire body. Usually used $13.4 million in unspent money Community College Commission that lems as the state. But he said he and assembled by a earmarked for economic development cuts state funding for community col- others understand that difficult deci- move to consider and data center recruitment projects to leges by $2.3 million. sions need to be made. bills, make amend- help bridge a $159 million shortfall for But Mead is supporting a number of “With revenue down significantly, ments and recom- the 2015 fiscal year. building projects on community college counties are painfully aware of the dif- mend action to be But he said he will be asking the Legis- campuses throughout the state. ficult choices we all face,” Ladwig said. taken by the body. lature for borrowing authority to use on This includes spending $6.51 million “As a proven advocate for Wyoming’s economic development projects if an op- in general funds for an agriculture and communities, we know Gov. Mead did CREG portunity presents itself. animal science facility at Central Wyo- the best he could to leave no stone un- Consensus Revenue The Legislature’s Joint Minerals, ming College in Riverton. turned in this request for local govern- Estimating Group. Business and Economic Development The governor also is recommending ment.” Meets in Interim Committee also will sponsor a the Legislature use $7.3 million in The governor is proposing to spend October and bill that would provide up to $250,000 for rainy-day funds for Central Wyoming the $90 million out of the state’s rainy- January to put out technology-based startups in the state. College’s Jackson Center Project and day fund. a report that The funds would be used for products $8 million in rainy-day funds for an ex- He said if the state’s revenue picture predicts state and ideas that have the “possibility” of pansion and remodel of the Technical improves, he hopes the Legislature revenues for the returning an economic benefit to Wyo- Education Center at the Northern Wyo- will consider increasing that amount. near- and long- ming’s economy. ming Community College District’s term future. – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle Sheridan campus. Engross, To Key lawmakers: – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle Key lawmakers: To incorporate all  Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, chairman  Sen. Michael Von Flatern, R-Gillette, chairman adopted Key lawmakers: of the Senate Appropriations Committee, of the Senate Minerals, Business and Economic amendments into  Sen. Hank Coe, R-Cody, chairman of the 307-632-8957, [email protected]. Development Committee, 307-680-4744, the text of the bill. Senate Education Committee, 307-587-4655, [email protected].  Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, chairman [email protected]. of the House Appropriations Committee,  Rep. Thomas Lockhart, R-Casper, chairman of  Rep. David Northrup, chairman of the House 307-262-8075, [email protected]. the House Minerals, Business and Economic Education Committee, 307-754-2190, Development Committee, 307-472-4116, [email protected]. [email protected]. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 7

NEW STATE HIGHWAY CRIMINAL SAVINGS PLAN FUNDING JUSTICE REFORMS The Legislature will consider a major Wyoming’s cash-strapped highway State lawmakers plan to tackle sen- change that could decide how the state system could get some help this year. tencing reforms and other judicial sys- uses much of its mineral revenues. Wyoming Department of Transporta- tem topics this session. Gov. Matt Mead is proposing lawmak- tion officials told lawmakers last fall that The Joint Judiciary Interim Commit- ers change a state law that currently re- the agency needs $62 million a year over tee is sponsoring a 24-page bill that gives quires 1 percent of oil, gas and coal its current state and federal funding mix judges more discretion to place offend- Bills to severance tax revenues to flow into the just to maintain highways and bridges in ers on probation or parole – instead of or- state’s Permanent Mineral Trust Fund. their current condition. dering prison time – for many types of watch The nearly $7 billion trust fund gener- That shortfall comes despite the extra crimes. ates interest and investment income for funds generated by the 10-cent fuel tax It also gives courts more options to re- the state. But lawmakers are barred increase that was passed in 2013. duce probation conditions or dismiss from touching the corpus, or principle, But the state received some good news charges after an offender has been on of the account. at the end of 2015 when Congress passed probation for a certain amount of time. The state’s Constitution requires 1.5 a new five-year federal highway bill. The proposal additionally opens up new percent of the mineral revenues to flow In addition to providing Wyoming ways for offenders to seek treatment or into the PMTF. But the extra 1 percent is with assurances that its federal funding complete other requirements in order to only required by state law. will continue, the legislation will in- have their probation, parole or prison Mead wants lawmakers to amend that crease the state’s federal funding by time reduced. law by diverting the 1 percent of mineral about $22 million a year. The legislation comes as the Depart- taxes, which usually totals about $100 Meanwhile, Gov. Matt Mead is pro- ment of Corrections is facing increased million a year, into the Legislative Stabi- posing to use $25 million in rainy-day budget pressures as the number of in- lization Reserve Account. funds for the upcoming two-year budget mates continues to rise. Also known as the state’s rainy-day cycle to help fund state transportation Meanwhile, Rep. James Byrd, D- fund, lawmakers are free to spend any of projects. Cheyenne, is sponsoring a bill that would the $1.8 billion that is currently in that “The highway system has always make it a civil penalty for those caught KNOW YOUR account whenever they choose. been and must remain a priority,” Mead with up to one ounce of marijuana on LEGISLATURE The law change is a centerpiece of said. “As with all infrastructure proj- their first or second offense. TERMINOLOGY Mead’s 2017-18 budget plan. ects, delayed maintenance not only Possession of up to three ounces of Mead is asking lawmakers spend creates havoc, it raises the cost of later marijuana is currently a misdemeanor Enroll, To about $450 million from the rainy-day improvement.” that carries a penalty of up to one year in To revise a bill after fund for one-time expenses. WYDOT officials say the extra funds jail and a $1,000 fine. passage by both But he said he plans to just “borrow” are crucial because the state’s roads will Meanwhile, possession of more than bodies of the this money, since the diversion of the gradually get worse if they are not prop- three ounces is a felony, punishable by Legislature by mineral revenues into the rainy-day erly maintained. According to a WYDOT up to five years in prison and a $10,000 incorporating all of fund would eventually backfill the computer model, 3.7 percent of the miles fine. the amendments money that will be spent. of interstate highways are considered to But Byrd’s proposal would have pos- adopted by both The governor has proposed diverting be in poor condition. But if the 2015 fund- session of up to one ounce of marijuana bodies. The the statutory 1 percent to help fund local ing levels remained flat, the percentage carry a civil fine of up to $100. His plan Enrolled Act governments and infrastructure proj- of interstate miles rated as poor would also would set a fine of up to $50 for pos- becomes law after ects in the past. However, those propos- rise to 7.4 percent in 2020 and 9.1 percent session of up to half an ounce of the drug. being signed by als have failed to receive much traction in 2025. It additionally would make possession presiding officers in the Legislature. The situation is even worse for non-in- of up to an ounce on a third or following of the House and But some top lawmakers – including terstate highways. offense carry penalties that could in- Senate and Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, who co- About 12.5 percent of non-interstate clude mandatory counseling, a fine of the governor. chairs the Joint Appropriations Com- roads in Wyoming’s National Highway $500 to $1,000, imprisonment of up to 30 mittee – are backing the governor’s System are currently rated as poor. That days and probation for up to a year. First proposal this time. number would rise to 23.1 percent in Byrd sponsored a similar proposal Reading In addition, Mead says he supports 2020 before dropping to 18 percent in during last year’s legislative session. But When a bill is making the law change a temporary fix, 2025, according to the projections. it failed on a 38-22 decision on its first introduced, the instead of permanent move. vote in the Wyoming House of short catch title – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle Representatives. and the sponsors – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle are read. Key lawmakers: – Trevor Brown, Wyoming Tribune Eagle Key lawmakers:  Sen. Curt Meier, R-LaGrange, chairman  Sen. Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne, chairman of the Senate Transportation, Highways and Key lawmakers: of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Military Affairs Committee, 307-834-2344,  Sen. Leland Christensen, R-Alta, chairman 307-632-8957, [email protected]. [email protected]. of the Senate Judiciary Committee, 307-353- 8204, [email protected].  Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, chairman  Rep. David Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, of the House Transportation, Highways and  Rep. David Miller, R-Riverton, chairman 307-262-8075, [email protected]. Military Affairs Committee, 307-630-1955, of the House Judiciary Committee, [email protected]. 307-857-5789, [email protected]. Page 8 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 9

The process starts with an  Without Recommendation chamber, it is then signed by presiding officers and sent to the governor for idea from citizens, officers in the House and Senate and action. legislators or a legislative sent to the governor for action. GUIDELINES FOR ATTENDING Committee of the Whole 1 committee. Then House bills Endorses or rejects the Governor’s action on the go to the House. Their Senate Standing Committee’s Request for concurrence bill Upon presentation of the counterparts, Senate files, go to the recommendation on the bill. If the bill is amended by the enrolled act, the governor LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Senate. 4 second legislative body, a may: 9 Attending committee message is sent to the other 10 steps Second reading of the bill 7  Approve and sign the bill meetings to voice your opinion Bills must pass a First This is where the bill is first chamber requesting hat the legislators to a bill Reading on the House or approve, or “concur,” with the  Allow the bill to become law without on issues before the Legisla- openly discussed on the ture is a great way to take part Senate floor to be referred House or Senate floor. amendments. If the legislators vote to his signature by taking no action becoming to a Standing Committee. 5 “concur,” the bill is enrolled, signed by in the process. Here are a few 2 Amendments are frequently  Veto portions of the bill guidelines: a law introduced. A bill must be voted on to the residing officer and sent to the governor for action.  Veto the bill In a House or Senate reach third reading. Standing Committee (If the governor vetoes the bill, it may If you would Each Standing Committee Joint Conference Third reading of the bill still become law if both the House and like to attend reviews the bills and invites Committee If the original 3 Amendments are again Senate vote to override the veto. The When you arrive at the com- the public to appear and present body votes not to concur with permitted during third vote to override requires a two-thirds testimony, as well as discusses the amendments made in the mittee meeting room, please reading. Final passage of a bill 8 vote in both the House and the sign the official meeting Atten- proposed legislation. This is where 6 second chamber, the bill is sent to a on third reading is by a roll-call vote. If Senate.) public input can affect a bill prior to Joint Conference Committee to work dance Sheet indicating your at- legislative debates. When the the bill is amended in the House and out a compromise between the House Session laws and tendance at the committee Standing Committee is ready for a passed on third reading, it is then and Senate positions. Wyoming state meeting. decision, a vote is taken: engrossed (amendments are inserted A Joint Conference Committee statutes Once the bill You can keep track of the com- into the bill) and sent across the consists of three members of the House 10 becomes law, it is then mittee’s schedule by reading the  Do Pass Capitol to go through a similar process and three members of the Senate. printed and bound into Wyoming notices on the committee room in the Senate. Vice versa for Senate When a bill has been passed in identical Session Laws. The new law is then door; by following the daily cal-  Do Not Pass files. If a bill passes both houses form by the House and Senate, it is placed into the appropriate parts of endar available outside the Sen-  Do Pass As Amended without amendments in the second then enrolled, signed by the presiding the Wyoming State Statutes. MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

No Internet access? February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 9

GUIDELINES FOR ATTENDING LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Attending committee ate Lobby, the House Lobby or All comments, questions and and a copy of your handout (in- meetings to voice your opinion near the atrium of the Jonah responses must flow through cluding an electronic copy, if How on issues before the Legisla- Business Center; or by checking the chairman by addressing available) to the committee ture is a great way to take part the Legislature’s website at the chairman each time you staff. to get in the process. Here are a few www.wyoleg.gov. wish to speak. Please bring enough copies of guidelines: This procedure ensures an your information for the com- involved If you would like to orderly flow of discussion dur- mittee, the committee staff and If you would address the committee ing the committee meeting. interested members of the au- like to attend dience. Individuals who wish to ad- If you want to give You also can email an When you arrive at the com- dress the committee will be a handout to the electronic copy to legdocs@ mittee meeting room, please recognized and called on by the wyoleg.gov. Please include the sign the official meeting Atten- chairman to speak. committee committee name, meeting date, dance Sheet indicating your at- After the chairman has rec- If you would like to provide document author, document tendance at the committee ognized you, please stand and written information to the com- provider and agenda item in the meeting. address the chairman (i.e. “Mr. mittee and you would like your body of the email, or include an You can keep track of the com- Chairman”). handout to be part of the official electronic copy of this form mittee’s schedule by reading the Then clearly state your name committee record, please fill along with your submission. notices on the committee room and the name of the organiza- out the Committee Handout Electronic copies of the form door; by following the daily cal- tion you represent prior to ad- Form when you arrive at the can be downloaded on the endar available outside the Sen- dressing the committee. meeting room and give the form Legislature’s website. MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD THANK YOU. During the legislative session, you can recommend support for or Thank you, Wyoming legislators, for opposition to a particular piece of legislation by using the Online your hard work on the public’s behalf. Hotline. In addition to expressing support for or opposition to an identified bill, As you embark on a busy general you can leave a short comment regarding the bill. This service is avail- able on the Legislature’s website at http://legisweb.state.wy.us/post session, the Wyoming Press comments/onlinehotline.aspx. Comments will be available to all Association applauds your legislators, but keep in mind legislators consider a variety of factors commitment to keeping when making decisions on pending legislation. The telephone hotline also is available toll-free 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for those the public’s business without Internet access. Within Wyoming, the number is 866-996-8683. public. For callers within the Cheyenne area, the number is 777-8683. Callers will not be able to leave comments regarding a bill. The information you provide using these services is considered a public record.

No Internet access? Be involved and updated by phone Legislative Service Office: 307-777-7881 Legislative Service Office FAX: 307-777-5466 Senate Receptionist: 307-777-7711 (message for senator) House Receptionist: 307-777-7852 (message for representative) Voter Hotline and Bill Status: 866-996-8683 or 777-VOTE (in Cheyenne). Use only to recommend a vote for/against pending legislation. Hearing Impaired Service: 800-877-9965 (Wyoming Relay Service) Page 10 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 11

www.wyoleg.gov ONLINE HIGHLIGHTS Even the worst technophobes have easy access to up-to-the-minute information directly from the Legislative Service Office. This is by no means meant to be a comprehensive look at the Legislature’s website. But it does show that the ability to keep an eye on your elected representatives and let them know what you think is at the tip of your fingers.

Website HOME PAGE guide Bill info This leads to the area where you can follow the progress of each bill, see the amendments added to it and the final version. More about this area of the website on page 11.

Audio recordings All of the floor debates and proceedings will be available here and Don’t overlook posted daily. But the these links files will be large MP3s These links are worth covering many hours. A exploring. The numbers, text index-transcript the law and a quick Google also will be available, search of this site are but the Legislative available. The General Service Office can’t Information link will take guarantee its accuracy you to the session rules with quick turnarounds. of the proceedings, as well Researchers can expect as the rules for attending to spend hours if looking committee hearings. for something specific.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS HOUSE/SENATE MEMBERS SESSION SCHEDULES

Identify leaders/committee members Direct contact with legislators When are debates and hearings? Here the leadership and committee members are You can, of course, send an email to your legislator. The schedules, calendar and meetings link tells you when identified, and the links lead to their phone numbers The effectiveness depends on your legislator’s ability to go to the Jonah Business Center if you are interested in and email addresses. and willingness to check email during a busy session. hearing debates or committee hearings on a particular bill. Phone numbers also are available. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 11

TRACK BILLS ONLINE www.wyoleg.gov There are several ways to track bills through the legislative process. Committee-sponsored bills traditionally have a better shot at making their way into law than those introduced by individual members. On the 2016 Bill Information Page, you can view summaries of committee- sponsored bills that are linked to PDF files of the actual bills, track a bill’s status and find technical information, such as bill abbreviations.

BILL INFORMATION PAGE VOTES ON BILLS Website Look up the guide votes by bill Click on a bill to bring up committee or floor votes.

Look up the votes by floor or committee Pull-down menus allow you to choose committee votes or floor votes for review and to select the chamber.

ALL BILLS A handy drop-down menu for sorting bills A pull-down menu allows you to view the bills by house or all at once. Though they are all pieces of proposed legislation, in the House they are called “House Bills,” while in the Senate they are called “Senate Files.” This page is updated as bill status changes and is a good spot to see where any bill is on a given day.

Grid outlines legislative process This allows you to see the pieces of a bill as they are added during the process. The bills are listed by number and usually referred to by a short catch title. You can see each bill introduced. You also can see the amendments accepted under the “Engrossed Version” column. “Enrolled Acts” shows the completed bill as it awaits the signatures of the Legislature’s officers and the governor. The “Chapter” column will tell you where the new legislation will appear in the law when it is accepted.

Amendments for consideration When amendments are proposed, a “yes” will appear in this column. Clicking on the “yes” brings up a list of all the amendments.

All previous action All previous action on a bill is available in the digests. Page 12 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016 Page 13

ON LOCATION: NAVIGATING Location, schedule and THE JONAH BUSINESS CENTER seating For the first time in Wyoming’s history, a legislative session will be held in a privately owned building outside of the State Capitol. The Jonah Business Center, located on East Pershing Boulevard in Cheyenne, will host the Legislature for the next three years while the State Capitol undergoes a major renovation. State charts leaders signed a lease last year to be one of the several tenants in the office building. The state paid for improvements and renovations to create space for House and Senate chambers, meeting rooms and space for staff to work. In addition to hosting the legislative sessions, the building will be the year-round home of the Legislative Service Office until the State Capitol renovation is completed.

House members Jim Allen, R-Lander Bill Pownall, R-Gillette Mark Baker, R-Rock Springs Tom Reeder, R-Casper Fred Baldwin, R-Kemmerer Andy Schwartz, D-Jackson Eric Barlow, R-Gillette Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale Rosie Berger, R-Big Horn Cheri Steinmetz, R-Lingle Jim Blackburn, R-Cheyenne Tim Stubson, R-Casper Stan Blake, D-Green River Mary Throne, D-Cheyenne House Seating Kermit Brown, R-Laramie Tom Walters, R-Casper Donald Burkhart, R-Rawlins Sue Wilson, R-Cheyenne James Byrd, D-Cheyenne Nathan Winters, R-Thermopolis Rita Campbell, R-Shoshoni Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne Richard Cannady, R-Glenrock David Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne Scott Clem, R-Gillette Cathy Connolly, D-Laramie JoAnn Dayton, D-Rock Springs Harlan Edmonds, R-Cheyenne Roy Edwards, R-Gillette John Eklund, R-Cheyenne Ken Esquibel, D-Cheyenne John Freeman, D-Green River Gerald Gay, R-Casper Mike Greear, R-Worland Marti Halverson, R-Etna Steve Harshman, R-Casper Elaine Harvey, R-Lovell Hans Hunt, R-Newcastle Allen Jaggi, R-Lyman Mark Jennings, R-Sheridan Norine Kasperik, R-Gillette Mark Kinner, R-Sheridan Dan Kirkbride, R-Chugwater Kendell Kroeker, R-Evansville Samuel Krone, R-Cody Lloyd Larsen, R-Lander Dan Laursen, R-Powell Tyler Lindholm, R-Sundance Thomas Lockhart, R-Casper Bunky Loucks, R-Casper Michael Madden, R-Buffalo Robert McKim, R-Afton David Miller, R-Riverton Glenn Moniz, R-Laramie Bob Nicholas, R-Cheyenne David Northrup, R-Powell Jerry Paxton, R-Encampment Charles Pelkey, D-Laramie Ruth Ann Petroff, R-Jackson Garry Piiparinen, R-Evanston February 6-7, 2016 Page 13

Building layout for the budget session Tentative schedule Assumes Legislature will not convene The Jonah Business Center is located at 3001 E. Pershing Blvd., across the street from Saturdays; schedule subject to change the Okie Blanchard Sports Complex. Public parking is available in the east parking lot in front without notice. (Note: Additional three of the building via Pershing Boulevard to the north or Omaha Road to the south. days may be added to schedule, if needed.) ON LOCATION: NAVIGATING Day 1: Monday, Feb. 8 Session convenes at 10 a.m. Day 3: Wednesday, Feb. 10 Noon deadline for all bill drafts to be in final form at Legislative Service Office. THE JONAH BUSINESS CENTER Day 5: Friday, Feb. 12 Last day for bill introductions. For the first time in Wyoming’s history, a legislative session will be held in a privately owned building outside of the State Capitol. The Jonah Business Center, Senate Day 9: Thursday, Feb. 18 located on East Pershing Boulevard in Cheyenne, will host the Legislature for the next three years while the State Capitol undergoes a major renovation. State Chamber Last day for bills to be reported out of committee in house of origin. leaders signed a lease last year to be one of the several tenants in the office building. The state paid for improvements and renovations to create space for House Day 10: Friday, Feb. 19 and Senate chambers, meeting rooms and space for staff to work. In addition to hosting the legislative sessions, the building will be the year-round home Last day for Committee of the of the Legislative Service Office until the State Capitol renovation is completed. Whole in house of origin. Day 11: Monday, Feb. 22 Last day for second reading in house of origin. Day 12: Tuesday, Feb. 23 Last day for third reading on bills House in house of origin. Chamber Day 15: Friday, Feb. 26 Last day for bills to be reported out of committee in second house. Day 16: Monday, Feb. 29 Last day for Committee of the Whole on bills in second house. Day 17: Tuesday, March 1 Last day for second reading on bills in second house. Day 18: Wednesday, March 2 Last day for third reading on bills in second house. Day 19: Thursday, March 3 Concurrence on amendments/Joint Conference Committee reports. Day 20: Friday, March 4 Joint Conference Committee reports due to front desk by 2 p.m. Adjourn by midnight.

Senate members James L. Anderson, R-Casper Senate Seating Paul Barnard, R-Evanston Eli Bebout, R-Riverton Brian Boner, R-Douglas Bruce Burns, R-Sheridan Cale Case, R-Lander Leland Christensen, R-Alta Henry Coe, R-Cody Stan Cooper, R-Kemmerer Bernadine Craft, D-Rock Springs Dan Dockstader, R-Afton Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower Fred Emerich, R-Cheyenne Floyd Esquibel, D-Cheyenne Gerald Geis, R-Worland John Hastert, D-Green River Larry Hicks, R-Baggs Wayne Johnson, R-Cheyenne Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan Bill Landen, R-Casper Curt Meier, R-LaGrange Phil Nicholas, R-Laramie Stephan Pappas, R-Cheyenne Drew Perkins, R-Casper Ray Peterson, R-Cowley Tony Ross, R-Cheyenne Chris Rothfuss, D-Laramie Charles Scott, R-Casper Michael Von Flatern, R-Gillette Jeff Wasserburger, R-Gillette Page 14 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 15 OF RELEVANCE TO LARAMIE COUNTY Laramie Local understaffed judicial system could see some relief County By Trevor Brown focus on the more major felonies Wyoming Tribune Eagle that they don’t have the time to do.” During the session Laramie County’s understaffed But Gov. Matt Mead is recom- Wyoming Tribune Eagle coverage of the legislative judicial system could get some mending the Legislature fund session will be published daily and posted online at help after this year’s legislative only part of the requests. His WyomingNews.com. session. 2017-18 biennium budget plan in- Wyoming’s most populated cludes the $137,529 request for county has seen its misdemeanor the legal assistant and a $65,974 ments, are met. and felony caseload increase 39 request for computer upgrades. The proposal comes as lawmak- percent from 2008 to 2014. But it leaves out the funding for ers and the Wyoming Department Laramie County District Attor- the three new attorneys and mov- of Corrections have been working ney Jeremiah Sandberg attribut- ing the receptionist to a full-time to find ways to reduce the state’s ed this to the county’s recent position. incarceration costs. population growth and law en- Meanwhile, the Legislature will Corrections officials say the in- forcement being more efficient at KNOW YOUR consider a bill this session that mate population is increasing clearing cases. LEGISLATURE could pave the way for adding a and, unless trends are reversed, He and other local officials say new judge to Laramie County’s the state will need to pay for ex- TERMINOLOGY the extra work has strained the First Judicial District. pensive expansions to its prison General File DA’s office, as well as the First The proposal would authorize system. Judicial District court system the addition of a fourth judge to Position of bills Rep. James Byrd, D-Cheyenne, that hears many of these cases. the local district court. But the after having been said he supports sentencing re- considered by the This has caused a backlog of new position – and the $1.3 million forms because he wants to see standing com- civil cases, such as child custody in state funding per two-year pe- more nonviolent offenders stay mittees to which or divorce hearings, since crimi- riod to pay for the salaries of the out of the prison system. they were nal cases tend to take precedence. judge, a new judicial assistant and assigned. These But the Legislature will consid- two law clerks – would only come “We need to address this as a so- bills can go either er several proposals this year that after certain conditions are met. ciety,” he said. “We need to deter- to Committee could help the situation. This includes Laramie County mine whether the sentences we of the Whole or Sandberg is seeking a nearly adding a new courtroom and are attributing to certain nonvio- back to a standing lent crimes, especially related to committee. $800,000 state funding bump – a other facilities to accommodate nearly 20 percent increase above the new judge. drug possession, are still as ap- House of the office’s $4.1 million base bud- The Legislature is additionally propriate as it was years ago when origin get – for the next two-year cycle. expected to tackle sentencing re- we came up with them.” The extra funds would be used forms that could reduce the num- Byrd is sponsoring a bill that The chamber – would decriminalize the posses- either the House or to hire three entry-level attorneys ber of people going through the sion of small amounts of marijua- Senate – where and a legal assistant. They also legal system. legislation was would pay for computer upgrades One bill would give courts more na, which currently is a originally and move a receptionist from a options to place some first-time misdemeanor crime that carries a introduced. part-time to a full-time position. offenders on probation, instead of penalty of up to one year in jail “I’m asking for the entry-level having them face jail time. and a $1,000 fine. attorneys so they do speeding It also would give judges more His proposal would make pos- tickets and the like,” Sandberg discretion to reduce probation, session of up to ounce of marijua- told lawmakers during a Decem- parole or prison time if certain re- na carry a civil fine of up to $100 ber budget hearing. “That will let quirements, such as if an offender and possession of up to half an my more experienced attorneys completes substance-abuse treat- ounce carry a fine of up to $50. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 15 OF RELEVANCE TO LARAMIE COUNTY LARAMIE COUNTY LEGISLATORS Laramie Wayne Johnson, Republican County Senate Senate District 6, Cheyenne legislators SD 6 covers all of Eastern Laramie County, with an Fred Emerich, Republican appendage extending into part of the northeast portion of Cheyenne; since redistricting, it also includes a narrow Senate District 5, Cheyenne portion of Goshen County SD 5 primarily covers the area north of Pershing Legislative experience: 12th year in the Senate, Boulevard on the west side of Cheyenne near Interstate 12 years in the House 25 and north of Interstate 80. The northern boundary is Age: 73 the intersection of I-25 and Lodge Pole Creek all the way to the Albany County line. Current employment: Retired What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium Legislative experience: Sixth year in the Senate budget?: “My priorities are always in the area of Age: 70 transportation: Roads, streets, highways. And, of course, I’m always working with and on the Wyoming Military Current employment: Retired Department and their needs – the items the state has to either match or pay for to support the Air Guard and the What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium KNOW YOUR budget?: “Balance the budget within reason using the Army Guard. In general, I think we’ll find that we’re doing Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account in a prudent pretty good in the 2017-18 biennium. I worry about 2019- LEGISLATURE 20 more. I was in the Legislature in the early 1990s when manner without breaking the bank.” TERMINOLOGY we had the last really bad bust, and I remember that well; Session contact info: 307-634-8783, that’s why I worry more far ahead, because I can Indefinitely [email protected]. remember the problems we had then.” postpone, To Session contact info: 307-635-2181, If the motion [email protected]. carries, it kills any Floyd Esquibel, Democrat future possibility for reconsideration Senate District 8, Cheyenne Stephan Pappas, Republican of the bill in a SD 8 primarily covers the area south of Pershing session except by Senate District 7, Cheyenne Boulevard to the Colorado state line and west of Central reintroduction as a Avenue toward Albany County. SD 7 generally covers the area of southeast Cheyenne. It new bill. includes some areas south of Pershing Boulevard, east of Legislative experience: Eighth year in the Senate, 12 South Greeley Highway and east of Central Avenue. Introduce years in the House Legislative experience: Second year in the Senate a bill, To Age: 77 Age: 65 The only way to pass a law is to Current employment: Retired Current employment: President of Pappas & Pappas introduce a bill Architects P.C. What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium for consideration, What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget?: “I agree with our governor about the need to amendment and budget?: “Obviously constitutionally we need to balance ‘tighten our belts.’ However, I would want to stress and passage by both the budget, so while I realize we’ll be looking at reducing bodies, and with focus on those in our state who have no ‘belts,’ our our expenditures, I do not want to see us adversely affect the governor’s homeless, our disabled, our medically insecure, our services if we can help it. My priorities would be to look at signature. mentally ill and others that are on the fringes of our ways to make our spending more efficient, if we can. We society. Their voices are often not heard, and I would hope need to look at different programs and whether they need that those voices are not further silenced due to our to stay or go away, but that should be done every year, financial situation.” not just a year where we’re in the hole.” Session contact info: 307-638-6529, Session contact info: 307-630-7180, [email protected]. [email protected]. Page 16 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 17

Tony Ross, Republican Harlan Edmonds, Republican Senate District 4, Cheyenne House District 12, Cheyenne SD 4 primarily covers the central and northern portions HD 12 primarily covers the area from Interstate 80 south of Cheyenne. to the Colorado state line. Its eastern border is South Legislative experience: 12th year in the Senate, nine Greeley Highway, and its western border is the Albany years in the House County line. Laramie Age: 63 Legislative experience: Second year in the House Current employment: Attorney at Ross, Ross and Age: 52 County Santini LLC in Cheyenne Current employment: Project manager for Wyoming legislators What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium Department of Transportation’s right-of-way program budget? “As chairman of the Appropriations Committee, What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium cont’d my first and foremost priority is that we deliver a budget budget?: “To prioritize the state budget. There are that meets the constitutional mandate of being balanced. probably going to be cuts. We need to keep what’s Secondly, I think it’s important we continue to invest in important and get rid of fat. During the Freudenthal Wyoming, so investing in infrastructure and in capital administration, the state government more than doubled construction is important to keep jobs going in the state. in cost, and not all of that was necessary. We also want to The last priority I would have is, as chairman of the avoid imposing a state income tax, and I know my Capitol renovation project, to make sure we keep that constituents can’t afford that.” fully funded and within budget.” Session contact info: 307-214-8125, Session contact info: 307-632-8957, [email protected]. [email protected]. John Eklund, Republican House District 10, Albin HD 10 covers the eastern half of Laramie County and a House small portion of Goshen County. Albin, Burns, Carpenter, KNOW YOUR Hillsdale and Pine Bluffs are part of this district. LEGISLATURE Theodore “Jim” Blackburn, TERMINOLOGY Republican Legislative experience: Sixth year in the House Age: 64 House District 42, Cheyenne JAC Current employment: Farmer/Rancher HD 42 extends north to the Ridley Road area, Interstate (Pronounce each 80 to the south, Interstate 25 to the east and the Albany What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium letter separately) County line to the west. budget?: “To balance the budget that’ll work for Joint everybody in the state. We are tasked with covering a Legislative experience: Second year in the House Appropriations shortfall for the remainder of the current biennium, then Committee; the Age: 72 the next two years there’s a huge shortfall, so we have 90 committee Current employment: Retired people in there working on this budget, and everybody thoroughly reviews What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium has a little different idea of how it should be. I’m not very both biennial and excited about dipping into savings just yet; I’m very supplemental budget budget? “My main priority is just to go through the cautious about going into the savings account.” requests from the budget and find places that we can eliminate so we don’t governor and makes see any increases in taxes or any type of new taxes for the Session contact info: 307-630-6232, recommendations to people of Wyoming.” [email protected]. the full House and Session contact info: 307-514-4318, Senate. [email protected]. Ken Esquibel, Democrat Joint House District 41, Cheyenne Conference James Byrd, Democrat HD 41 primarily covers the central to northern areas of Committee House District 44, Cheyenne Cheyenne. Composed of three HD 44 primarily covers the downtown Cheyenne area, Legislative experience: 10th year in the House members from each south of Pershing Boulevard and north of Interstate 80. Age: 56 body appointed by Legislative experience: Eighth year in the House the speaker of the Current employment: Railroad engineer for Union Age: 61 House and the Senate Pacific president. The Current employment: Computer networking analyst What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium committee reconciles What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget?: “I think the most important issue will be to the differences in the budget? “Make sure we don’t do anything silly like show the general public as simply as possible how the content of a bill that draconian cuts when we don’t need them, and support my revenues flow from them, the taxpayers, to the different has come through bills that I’m bringing forward: ban the box (asking about accounts the state has; then how the state moves that both houses with criminal history) on job applications, raise the minimum money to those different accounts. It is my hope that the differing wage and decriminalization of small amounts of public will be able to see that the state is a lot better off amendments. marijuana possession.” financially than they hear it is.” Session contact info: 307-634-5803, Session contact info: 307-630-6096, [email protected]. [email protected]. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 17

Bob Nicholas, Republican What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget?: “The big issue, of course, is the budget and House District 8, Cheyenne dealing with the revenue downturn. That’s going to HD 8 primarily covers the area north of Pershing have priority over everything. Aside from that, I do Boulevard on the west side of Cheyenne near always try to keep an eye out on opportunities to Interstate 25. improve the health-care system in Wyoming, access to Legislative experience: Sixth year in the House care and providers.” Laramie Age: 58 Session contact info: 307-316-7497, Current employment: Attorney with Nicholas Law [email protected]. County Office in Cheyenne legislators What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium Dan Zwonitzer, Republican cont’d budget? “I want to develop and work on a fair budget House District 43, Cheyenne and prepare for short-range, medium-range and long- term protection of our state and our economic HD 43 covers south-central Laramie County, including situation with the downturn and extrapolate out how eastern Cheyenne. It includes all of the Sun Valley area best we can do that in the next two, four and six years, south of Pershing Boulevard and east of College Drive, at the least, in the most efficient way possible. as well as the area south of Allison Road to the “For Laramie County and Cheyenne, I want to protect Colorado state line east of South Greeley Highway. the respective interests of those two entities; and any cuts or modifications we do to the budget, that’s still Legislative experience: 12th year in the House premature and we’re working on that. Age: 36 “My third priority would be to further develop and define funding for education and education facilities Current employment: Management consultant over the short, medium and long term; how we’re going What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium to find those funding sources and put together a budget? “My goals for session this year: Passing a package that doesn’t diminish other aspects of state KNOW YOUR government.” new Wyoming Securities Act to prevent some of the LEGISLATURE egregious fraud we saw in the state this year, as well TERMINOLOGY Session contact info: 307-634-6057, as work toward Medicaid expansion, reducing our [email protected]. ever-increasing insurance rates, and try to keep our Lay back, To Bills on General File energy industry thriving during the last year of the Mary Throne, Democrat in the Committee Obama Administration.” of the Whole, or on House District 11, Cheyenne Session contact info: 307-214-7826, Second or Third HD 11 primarily covers the central part of Cheyenne, Reading, may be [email protected]. south of Pershing Boulevard and north of Campstool laid back for a Road. College Drive is the district’s eastern border, and specified time. Central Avenue is the western border. David Zwonitzer, Republican LSO Legislative experience: 10th year in the House House District 9, Cheyenne Legislative Service Age: 55 HD 9 covers the area north of Dell Range Boulevard Office. It is the permanent, from the post office on the east side of Cheyenne. It Current employment: Attorney, Throne Law Office P.C. nonpartisan includes attendance areas of Dildine, Buffalo Ridge and What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium central staff office Anderson elementary schools, as well as some areas on budget? “Passing a budget that puts Wyoming on of the Legislature. solid footing, despite the revenue challenges.” the south side of Dell Range Boulevard. LSRA Session contact info: 307-630-6728, Legislative experience: 10th year in the House Legislative [email protected]. Age: 62 Stabilization Reserve Account, Sue Wilson, Republican Current employment: Real estate investor, also known as the auctioneer rainy-day fund. House District 7, Cheyenne HD 7 covers the area north of Melton, Bluegrass Circle, What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium Storey Boulevard extension and Dell Range Boulevard budget? “I think it’s the same as everybody’s, trying to in Cheyenne all the way north to Platte County, with keep the budget straight. I’m taking a strong look at major borders being Interstate 25, the Albany County our school facilities and our future long-term line and Christensen Road. arrangements on how money gets spent in that area. Legislative experience: Fourth year in the House Other than that, making the money work with our Age: 55 budget this year.” Current employment: Owner, La Frontera Language Session contact info: 307-635-7247, Services [email protected]. Page 18 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 19

OF RELEVANCE TO ROCK SPRINGS Rock Dipping into the rainy-day fund occupies minds of legislators Springs By Tyler Hanes to fund areas that are important to the state. revenue forecasts we have are very conser- and Gregory R.C. Hasman “We need to look at that very closely and vative. They don’t include capital gains, and Rock Springs Rocket-Miner need to be careful before we start cutting as Wyoming and the energy sector is kind of from projects and the forms of government winding down, the rest of the country seems A projected $617 million decline in miner- that affects us, and that’s our local govern- to be perking up, (which) usually is par for al and oil and gas revenues during the next ment,” she said. the course. I think, again, to the point of let’s three years have caused Gov. Matt Mead to She said the return of payments from the look at our policy for saving,” he said. consider tapping into the state’s rainy-day Abandoned Mine Land funds, as stated in fund. the Fixing America’s Surface Transporta- Many southwest Wyoming legislators are tion Act, may help cities and counties as they JoAnn Dayton, HD 17 in favor of the proposal because it will help ride through the economic downturn. Rep. JoAnn Dayton, D-Rock Springs, said the state get through a rough patch. “Restoration of AML funds could be ex- she is also concerned about the budget cuts Not everyone agrees, however, as to what tremely helpful to affected cities such as in the tobacco settlement funds. extent the fund should be used. Rock Springs, and could go far to ease the Mead is proposing to slash $12 million Some said it should only be used for pro- 50.8 percent reduction in funding,” she said. grams that are in dire straits, while others from the funds, including $7.4 million from think it should be spent based on the needs of the Department of Health. KNOW YOUR “Another concern I have is with the tobac- LEGISLATURE the entire state, such as local government John Hastert, SD 13 and Medicaid expansion. co trust fund, with those agencies (that) are TERMINOLOGY What issues do Sweetwater County legis- Sen. John M. Hastert, D-Green River, said being cut. I understand why, but I don’t have lators think should be given more priority as he supports Medicaid expansion. to like it, nor do the agencies have to like it. PMTF “We are showing that the extension for We’ll have to manage within it,” she said. Permanent they prepare for the legislative budget ses- sion in Cheyenne? Medicaid would save the Department of She said treatment courts may be heavily Mineral Trust Fund. Health $32 million annually, and that it will impacted by the cuts. Wyoming Consti- bring in $274 million of federal money into “Talking with county coordinators, they tution blocks the Stan Cooper, SD 14 the state of Wyoming,” he said. “If you’re are afraid they won’t be able to operate with state from spend- having an economic downturn, why would the amount of the cuts (over 50 percent) and ing the corpus of Sen. Stan Cooper, R-Kemmerer, said law- you turn it down? I have been a proponent of some of those counties that have a great suc- the multi-billion makers should look at cutting as much as the expansion all along.” cess story,” she said. “Production for people dollar account. they can from the budget before resorting to Hastert said providing funds to highway being treated 1.5-2 years is up to 80 percent the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Ac- safety is another important issue. with few repeaters, and they track them. Question, count, also known as the rainy-day fund. “There are some safety projects I’d like to This prevents them from getting prison Call of “Some of our state agencies have open- see. Safety items like an additional lane on sentences.” An informal use ings; maybe we can leave unfilled vacan- the interstate across the state. Wyoming is of the motion cies,” he said. kind of a pinch point for traffic with Utah. “previous question.” However, Cooper said he is willing to dip Any converging outside the state causes a lot Mark Baker, HD 48 into the account to subsidize areas that are in of traffic and safety issues across the state. I Both are used to Rep. Mark Baker, R-Rock Springs, said he dire need. would like to see money put toward safety on stop debate and would not oppose dipping into the rainy-day “We have to be careful. We need to use the interstate at some point,” he said. force a vote on the fund as a last resort. Before doing that, main question and all things that are absolutely necessary for op- eration in the state,” he said. “If it’s a need, though, he said he wants to see the state use amendments to it. the $241.9 million in AML funds that are rather than a want, so to speak, then that’s John Freeman, HD 60 coming from the federal government. different, i.e., maintain facilities; (for) that Recess Rep. John Freeman, D-Green River, said Baker said he has put out feelers to the Ap- sort of thing, then we probably need to take a A motion to resume the rainy-day fund should act as a cushion propriations Committee and Mead for fund- look at that. If there are operations the state the session at a for the state. ing of Bitter Creek restoration. can do without, we may not want to use later time that day. “(The) rainy-day fund is supposed to be a He said the governor supports the project, money on that.” buffer, and I think it’s appropriate (for it) to but not funding it at this time. Re-refer, To be used,” he said. With AML money coming into the state, A motion made Bernadine Craft, SD 12 When the Legislature convenes in Febru- he said he would like to see some of those by any member ary, he expects tumultuous debates. funds used for that project. Baker said he to assign a bill Sen. Bernadine Craft, D-Rock Springs, “I know the Legislature says it will be like and Dayton have pushed for the project to a committee questions Mead’s proposal to slash local walking into a hurricane,” he said. because it is a good opportunity to benefit other than the one government spending. Despite the sense of urgency, Freeman their constituents. that has already She said while it is important to save said Wyomingites should not get flustered. “That’s one of the things I’ve been work- considered it. money, the state has to have the wherewithal “I don’t think Wyoming should panic. The ing on for nearly a year now,” he said. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 19

ROCK SPRINGS

Rock AREA LEGISLATORS Springs- Senate John Hastert, Democrat area Senate District 13, Green River legislators Stan Cooper, Republican SD 13 includes parts of Rock Springs and Green River and the area extending along Interstate 80 between them. Senate District 14, Kemmerer SD 14 covers central and southern Sublette County, a Legislative experience: House, 2004-06; Senate, small portion of southeastern Lincoln County, far 2007-present southern Lincoln County, western Sweetwater and Age: 57 northwestern Unita County and western Sweetwater County. Current employment: Mechanic Legislative experience: House, 2003-04; Senate, What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium 2005-present budget? Age: 75 “I am not in favor of an across-the-board cut. Every Current employment: Retired electrical contractor agency provides a budget, and we on Appropriations have been asking questions to determine and get a better What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium understanding of what each of the agencies and each of budget? “One of the things we probably have to the programs do, and then we will make those decisions KNOW YOUR concentrate on, at least have pretty good considerations, come January, which ones are necessary and which ones LEGISLATURE are ongoing budget items like several state agencies that should be cut. I don’t think we should make any cuts TERMINOLOGY have to be funded for, like highways, WYDOT programs without understanding how it will affect people. for maintaining our highways, several items in the Reconsider, To Department of Health. We have a long ways to go on “I support school funding. I think education is critical for A motion to take a developmental disability issues. the people of Wyoming. I want to make sure we roll call vote. adequately support our university to make sure we are “Probably another big issue we’ll have to work pretty hard Carried by voice on is cities, towns and counties. (We have to) make sure (giving a) good education for our kids.” majority vote we are funding them in a way that allows them to Session contact info: 307-777-7711, of members maintain, at least in a time of downturn in our revenue. [email protected]. present. Must be Session contact info: 307-777-7711, made by a member [email protected]. who voted on the prevailing side House and must be made and be acted on the Bernadine Craft, Democrat Mark Baker, Republican same or the next legislative day. Senate District 12, Rock Springs House District 48, Rock Springs Cannot be made SD 12 includes central and southern Sweetwater County. HD 48 covers southwestern Fremont County up to Louis once the bill in Legislative experience: House, 2007-12; Senate, Lake and central Sweetwater County north of Interstate question has 2013-present 80 to Point of Rocks and part of Rock Springs north of the passed out Elk Street-Bridger Avenue intersection and south along of possession of Age: Would not disclose U.S. 191 to Tri-Territory Road. the body. Current employment: BOCES executive director and Legislative experience: Fourth year in the House priest of Episcopal Church of Holy Communion in Rock Age: 36 Recommit, To Springs A motion made Current employment: Real estate agent What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium by any member to budget? Craft said supporting Medicaid expansion would What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium return a bill to the benefit Wyoming citizens and hospitals. “Not only would budget? committee that you provide insurance coverage to almost 17,600 Baker said he would prefer to wait for the Appropriations has already Wyoming citizens who currently have no insurance, it also Committee’s session to end before expressing any considered it. helps our hospitals greatly. They have to provide charity concerns about the budget. He said he was interested to care and uncompensated care. Those private-for-profit see how the AML money coming from the federal hospitals can’t accept Medicaid patients, which puts a government will be utilized to cover any projected budget great burden on the hospital.” shortfalls. Session contact info: 307-382-1607, 307-777-7711, Session contact info: 307-371-5113, House message line [email protected]. at 866-966-8683, [email protected]. Page 20 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 21

Fred Baldwin, Republican JoAnn Dayton, Democrat House District 18, Kemmerer House District 17, Rock Springs HD 18 includes parts of Lincoln, Sublette and Sweetwater HD 17 includes southern Rock Springs and southern counties. Sweetwater County eastward to Carbon County and as far as Wamsutter. Legislative experience: Second year in the House Rock Legislative experience: Second year in the House Age: 59 Age: Would not disclose Springs- Current employment: Physician’s assistant at South Current employment: Retired from OCI as an executive area Lincoln Medical Center assistant for the site manager legislators What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? Baldwin said the increase of funding to mental budget? “Education. We need to provide an education cont’d health is an absolute need for residents of Wyoming, and program from K-12; that has to stay as one of our main not just his constituents. Instead of just maintaining the priorities.” present funding in the mental health field, he said the Session contact info: 307-382-5262, House message funding needs to increase. Education funding also is line at 866-966-8683, [email protected]. threatened by the recent economic downturn, he said. With the drop in revenues from mineral withdrawal, Baldwin said education funding will need to be John Freeman, Democrat reexamined in the upcoming budget session. House District 60, Green River Session contact info: 307-777-7711, HD 60 covers a section of Sweetwater County consisting [email protected]. of Green River, south of the river. Legislative experience: Fifth year in the House Stan Blake, Democrat Age: 61 Current employment: High school transition KNOW YOUR House District 39, Green River coordinator at Western Wyoming Community College LEGISLATURE HD 39 includes part of Green River and the area along TERMINOLOGY What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium Interstate 80 between Green River and Rock Springs. budget? “I would like to see money that is available for Rise and Legislative experience: 10th year in the House school resource officers, especially in small districts that can’t afford them. I think (it’s best) being proactive in Report Age: 61 addressing school security, (rather) than being reactive. A motion to adjourn Current employment: Union Pacific Railroad conductor “In my day job, I work as a high school coordinator, and the body of the House What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium that’s a fancy title of saying how you get … students to or Senate. budget? Blake said his priority is to have a budget that take college classes before they graduate high school. Second will not harm the people who can’t afford it. He said when (They are) more likely to go to college and more likely to a budget needs to be reduced, the programs that are the finish. Large districts from large communities can afford Reading that, tuition and fees, so again smaller communities and first cut are the ones that help people. “The most Usually is ordered at smaller schools have problems to get that done. (We vulnerable people are the people who can least afford it,” least a day after need) to give aid to districts so they can pay for the adoption of he said. His goal for the upcoming budget session is to tuition and fees so those students can take college recommendation make sure cities, towns and counties remain funded, classes; places like Mountain View and Lyman have of Committee of the along with the schools in those communities. difficulties.” Whole. The short Session contact info: House message line at Session contact info: House message line at catch title is read and 866-966-8683, [email protected]. 866-966-8683, [email protected]. notifies members the bill will be up for Third Reading and final passage the following day. No action is required, but any action, including FOR DAILY LEGISLATIVE COVERAGE amendment, may be moved on the bill by any member. DURING THE 2016 BUDGET SESSION: Sponsor Rock Springs Rocket-Miner coverage of the session will be published daily, as well as online, along with links to ongoing legislative issues and legisla- The lawmaker or tors, at rocketminer.com. lawmakers who filed a given bill. Rawlins Daily Times coverage of the session will be published in the newspaper and posted to rawlinstimes.com. Committees can also sponsor legislation. Laramie Boomerang coverage of the session will be published daily and posted to laramieboomerang.com. February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 21

Senate Larry Hicks, Republican OF RELEVANCE Senate District 11, Baggs SD 11 covers all of Carbon County and parts of Albany County, including Rock River. Legislative experience: 2011-present TO RAWLINS Rawlins- Age: 57 Senator discusses budget priorities, challenges Current employment: National resource area coordinator for the Little Snake River By David Louis shortfalls. For the Conservation District Rawlins Daily Times past six years, we’ve legislators spent between $3.4 What are your priorities for the 2017-18 As Wyoming legislators prepare to meet for a biennium budget? “Right now, I may have an billion and $3.6 billion, 20-day budget session in Cheyenne, we asked Sen. so let’s continue to do individual bill, but I’m going to focus the majority Larry Hicks, R-Baggs, to discuss what he sees as his of my time on the budget. It’s not going to be fun.” that. The reason we put main priorities and the Legislature’s largest chal- money away is to continue Session contact info: 307-777-7711, lenges this year. to provide services in times [email protected]. of crisis, and, quite frankly, I Q: What are your priorities for the 2017-18 don’t think we are there yet.” biennium budget? House A: “Right now, I may have an individual bill, but Q: What is the future? I’m going to focus the majority of my time on the A: “Realistically, we could be looking at a short- Donald Burkhart, Republican budget. It’s not going to be fun.” fall of $600 million, and this could become the new House District 15, Rawlins norm for a protracted period of time. Historically, HD 15 covers all of Rawlins, excluding the state Q: With the governor predicting more than economic downturns will run anywhere from six to penitentiary, the city limits of Sinclair, and land $400 million less in revenues for the next 12 years. I’m looking out, and I think it’s irresponsi- between Sinclair and Rawlins on Interstate 80. biennium than what was anticipated earlier ble to drain our savings in four years because we this year, what are some of the challenges want to maintain a $3.6 billion budget. I’m going to Legislative experience: 2011-present when you consider such tight numbers? tell you there are a lot of things that could be cut out Age: 67 A: “It’s priorities. We have to start looking back of state government.” Current employment: Safety engineer; now, because we’ve made so many obligations to Wyoming-Montana Safety Council, board of long-term future projects. It’s not about just looking Q: What about using the Legislative directors forward as a result of what I think was some mis- Stabilization Reserve Account, or rainy-day What are your priorities for the 2017-18 management in the last session. fund, as the governor would say, as a smooth- biennium budget? “I have a number of “Unfortunately, we’ve obligated funds when we ing effect on budget constraints? proposals out there, and I’ve made a position went about the supplemental budget last year that I A: “I’m not opposed to dipping into the rainy-day that this budget needs to be a minimum of two was adamantly opposed to by not funding projects account, but first we need to ask ourselves, ‘What percent less than the last biennium budget. You in a sequential order as money became available. can we do to be more efficient?’ We saw government can’t go in looking for money to keep the budget By not doing so, it effectively tied the hands of this over a 10-year period of time in the state of Wyo- the same when times are as tough as they are. Legislature. We need to look back and determine if ming almost double. We’ve managed to rein it back You have to make some cuts, and we need to they are still priorities today.” a couple hundred million, but I think given the rate look at that.” of growth that we had and where we are at with the Session contact info: 307-321-7074, Q: When the supplemental budget session was number of state employees needs to be considered. [email protected]. finally over in March of 2015, what were the “I interact in my professional career with a lot of ramifications? state agencies, and I see a lot of areas that we can Jerry Paxton, Republican A: “The last supplemental budget took a signifi- modify and streamline how government operates cant departure from what had historically been verses just jumping into the rainy-day fund.” House District 47, Encampment done. In my opinion, it was as close as you can get to HD 47 covers all of Carbon County, except the deficit spending without deficit spending, and I Q: What are the chances of Medicaid expan- towns of Rawlins and Sinclair, and parts of think it set a very bad precedent.” sion happening this time around? Albany County, including the town of Rock A: “I think it’s a fantasy. It’s been soundly rebuked River. About one-third of Sweetwater County is Q: Is it a slippery slope once you start dipping the last two sessions. I guess I don’t understand also covered, including Bairoil, Wamsutter and into savings to solve budget problems, or is it where the governor is coming from. We are looking Farson-Eden. a reasonable direction to take? at anywhere from $10 million to $23 million being Legislative experience: 2013-present A: “Once you tip the coffee can, it all starts to spill put in to do that. It makes more obligations and an ad- Age: 71 out. In my opinion, it’s reckless and completely irre- ditional strain on the budget. I’m cautiously optimis- Current employment: Retired school principal sponsible not to look back and consider how the tic the Joint Appropriations Committee will cut it out and former Carbon County commissioner state’s funding cycles have run. If we tap into the and it will never make it unless it comes back as an savings at what the governor is proposing, within individual amendment on the budget bill. What are your priorities for the 2017-18 four to four-and-a-half years, it’s gone. “I can tell you, on the Senate side, and I believe biennium budget? (Did not respond) “Quite frankly, I’m not a fan of the governor’s on the House side, there’s no way you’re going to Session contact info: 307-327-5373, budget. The best thing we can do is have a fiscally get Medicaid expansion through the Wyoming [email protected]. sound budget, with reserves used for emergency Legislature.” Page 22 Legislature Guide 2016 February 6-7, 2016February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 23 OF RELEVANCE TO LARAMIE AND UW Laramie Lean times: Laramie will feel cuts in state funding for local governments & UW By Joel Funk Leaders from the Wyoming Association of tude to use those appropriations as they see Laramie Boomerang Municipalities and the Wyoming County fit, Mead’s recommendation for funding for Commissioners Association jointly recom- local governments in his 2017-18 biennium While many Wyoming cities, towns and mended Gov. Matt Mead keep funding for budget was cut in half from the previous counties boom and bust depending on the local governments as close to the last bienni- biennium. fortunes of mineral industries, the city of um as possible for direct distributions, or Laramie’s elected officials and city staff Laramie and Albany County’s budgets are operational funds that can be used for have always known its funding would ebb more intimately tethered to state funding for matching funds, infrastructure and general and flow with the state, Jordan said. Even so, local governments. operations, but not for personnel or raises. she said the cut is “significant and going to Accounting for 43 percent of sales and use In order to give local governments more be very challenging.” tax collections, retail trade is Albany Coun- control over how to disperse funds, WAM The city has a hiring freeze in place, as ty’s biggest source of revenue, according to and WCCA asked Mead to forgo consensus well as a freeze on requests for proposals on Wenlin Liu, principal economist at the Wyo- funding, which is restricted to capital con- bids that were going out for projects as Lara- ming State Economic Analysis Division. struction projects. Though this makes its economy more sta- This is preferable for Laramie, City Man- mie city staff and elected officials reassess ble than mineral-rich counties, Albany ager Janine Jordan said, because direct dis- capital plans for the next three years, Jordan County is one of the highest populated and tribution funds can still be used for capital said. Austerity measures would be felt in ex- KNOW YOUR poorest counties per capita in the state. Its construction projects that would have been isting services for residents. LEGISLATURE largest employer, the University of Wyo- funded by consensus appropriations. “We need to make sure we can pay the TERMINOLOGY ming, has many features, including the “By appropriating funds to cities under bills for those projects,” Jordan said. “We’re Third Reading smallest gender wage gap in the state, but it direct distribution, it gives the local elected talking to council about what projects are vi- does not pay taxes into the city of Laramie’s officials more latitude on where, when and able to move forward and what are not. We Usually is ordered on coffers. As such, Laramie is heavily depen- why to use those funds,” Jordan said. “We also have to address how we may have to re- the legislative day dent on state funding for municipal govern- can use it for whatever is most needed.” duce services for programs we already have following the Second Reading. Amendments ments to keep day-to-day operations funded. Though local leaders would have the lati- in place.” may be offered only prior to the reading of the bill. The catch title and the enacting clause UW PREPARES TO WEATHER FISCAL STORM are read, and roll call is taken for final passage. Gov. Matt Mead’s recommended budget cuts $5 million from state university Withdraw By Thaddeus Mast Even though the reduction will affect sev- my single largest effort or interest.” Laramie Boomerang eral university operations, Mai understands Salary and staff compensation or raises A motion to remove the situation the state is in and thinks UW were not in the budget. Nicholas said finding a bill from further About a third of Wyoming’s annual budget will fare well in the budget-slashing storm. the funding in the upcoming budget would consideration by goes to education, be it K-12, community col- Every year, the UW Board of Trustees be very difficult. the member who leges or the University of Wyoming. All of creates a list of budget exception requests – “You find these long-term environments introduced the bill. these could take a hit if the Wyoming Legis- normally, projects or programs the annual where raises are difficult, if at all, and we’ve It can only be made lature passes Gov. Matt Mead’s proposed block grant cannot easily fund. This year, been through that,” he said. “It’s difficult when the bill is in 2017-18 biennium budget. possession of the the trustees requested $160 million – the when there’s no way to increase your budget One of UW’s missions is to remain as near- bulk for capital construction. each year to offset rising salaries.” body and must carry ly free as possible to students. That means by unanimous consent. Mead’s budget recommended approval of Supporting education also is a top priority the state foots most of UW’s bills through a about $60 million worth of projects, includ- for Sen. Chris Rothfuss, D-Laramie. Without block grant – more than $300 million in that ing about $6 million for a new fiscal system “I was disappointed to see the university grant alone. Mead’s budget recommends a and $30 million for the science initiative, lose $5 million from the block grant – that Recommendation reduction of $5 million. While it can seem which Sen. Phil Nicholas, R-Laramie, was the one aspect that I really wasn’t happy A committee may like a drop in the bucket, $5 million can be strongly supports. about when it comes to the university,” he return a bill without used to fund several of UW’s programs. “It’s a matter of keeping (the initiative) ac- said. recommending “We’ll see how it all comes out in the end, tive,” he said. “In this environment, trying to “Holding the budget was one thing, but ac- approval nor but the university is going to have to make it figure out how we accumulate the resources tually cutting the block grant was another. I disapproval. work,” said Bill Mai, vice president of ad- – it’s difficult. It’s a $100 million project. The don’t think we’ve reached a point where we ministration. “That’s 10 percent or so, idea was to put away about $30 million a year need to start cutting our investment in the maybe a little less, of the university’s utili- until we got there. It is in the governor’s bud- state, and I think education is the biggest in- ties budget. It’s a lot of money.” get, but the budget’s being crowded, so that’s vestment we have.” February 6-7, 2016 Legislature Guide 2016 Page 23

Cathy Connolly, Democrat Senate House District 13, Laramie Phil Nicholas, Republican HD 13 covers central Laramie. Legislative experience: House, Senate District 10, Laramie 2009-present SD 10 covers Albany County and the east side of Laramie. Age: 59 Legislative experience: House, 1997-2004, Senate, 2005-present Laramie- Current employment: Professor and Age: 60 program director, Gender and area Current employment: Attorney for Nicholas & Tangeman, LLC Women’s Studies, University of legislators What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? “My Wyoming highest priority is to complete the funding package for the science What are your priorities for the initiative, and it’s a pretty ambitious project in and of itself. It’s not a 2017-18 biennium budget? “In project that can be funded in a single year. It’s got to be funded over general, my priorities for the upcoming multiple years, so it’s a process of keeping legislators interested in the session will be to consider funding for project and keeping the university. On the budget itself, my highest priority needed state projects and services given is to develop a legislative policy with respect to how we access the rainy- dwindling revenues; in particular, funding for day funds – how long do we (use it), how do we plan them in our budgets, our schools, including the University of Wyoming at what rate do we dissipate the funds and for what purposes.” and community colleges. We need to do the hard Session contact info: 307-742-7140, [email protected]. work of considering our savings policies that have resulted in growing accounts such as the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account, without any mechanism for tapping into these funds for Chris Rothfuss, Democrat these needed services and projects.” Senate District 9, Laramie Session contact info: 307-399-0482, [email protected]. SD 9 covers the west side of Laramie and parts of Albany County west of Laramie. Legislative experience: Senate, 2011-present Glenn Moniz, Republican Age: 43 House District 46, Laramie Current employment: Independent chemical engineer consultant and HD 46 covers parts of southwestern Albany County, including the half-time University of Wyoming faculty member communities of Centennial, Albany and Woods Landing-Jelm. What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? “My first Legislative experience: House, 2008-present priority is again going to be finding a way to expand Medicaid to accept Age: 71 that $250 million the state would receive in federal funds to ensure almost Current employment: Business partner on commercial property 18,000 Wyoming citizens have access to affordable health care, which will lead to an approximately $33 million budget savings. This is a great What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? “Since I opportunity – to simultaneously save money for the state at a time of need am on the Joint Appropriations Committee, obviously my first priority is to and expand health-care coverage for our citizens. It’s a huge win-win. I present a balanced budget to the floor of the House at the beginning of the want to make sure that, as we go into this budget session, we don’t simply session in February. I will also continue to support the University of come from a state of panic where we’re afraid the sky is falling and we Wyoming in all ways possible. At the present time, the governor has been start slashing programs that are essential for the operation of the state kind (to UW) with his present budget proposal. This will be a challenge to and important to the people of the state of Wyoming.” maintain throughout the budgeting process, but I feel confident.” Session contact info: 307-399-3556, [email protected]. Session contact info: [email protected]. House Charles Pelkey, Democrat House District 45, Laramie Kermit Brown, Republican HD 45 covers parts of central and western Albany County. House District 14, Albany County Legislative experience: Second year in the House HD 14 covers northern and parts of western Albany County. Age: 57 Legislative experience: House, 2005-present Current employment: Attorney at Neubauer, Pelkey and Goldfinger, LLP Age: 73 What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? Current employment: Attorney “I think at this point in time, it’s probably not the time in panic. Obviously, What are your priorities for the 2017-18 biennium budget? “(My priority we are suffering from a decrease in state revenues, largely because we is) to do the least harm possible. I’m not sitting on the Appropriations have a single source of revenue – revenue for taxation of mineral Committee, and I don’t know what they’re going to find. I take a different exploitation and oil and gas. The good thing is, is that the Wyoming State perspective as Speaker (of the House). I appoint really good people, and I’m Legislature has historically socked away a great deal of money in the past very happy with the people I have on Appropriations. I want them to do their for just such a contingency. My hope is that we don’t impose draconian work and see where they come out. I don’t want to jump in and say my priority cuts that will cost us more in the long run, and that we’re able to use those is ‘X’ before I know what they dig up, but I really think there’s a solution.” reserves for the purposes for which they were intended.” Session contact info: 307-760-3636, [email protected]. Session contact info: 307-920-0542, [email protected]. Simply Shared Unlimited National Talk & Text Plus Shared Data

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