The bill amends existing laws regarding forcible entry and detainer actions, specifically addressing the trial process when a plaintiff waives claims for monetary restitution. It stipulates that if a plaintiff chooses to waive all monetary restitution—including damages, outstanding rent, and costs—and seeks only the restoration of possession of the premises, the case will be tried by the circuit court without a jury. This change is reflected in the new legal language added to W.S. 1-21-1009(b), which specifies that any demand for a jury trial will be denied under these circumstances.

Additionally, the bill makes conforming amendments to W.S. 1-21-403 and W.S. 1-21-1008 to ensure consistency with the new provisions. It clarifies that in cases where the rental value is waived, the court will not render judgment for that value. The act is set to apply to any forcible entry and detainer actions filed on or after July 1, 2024, with the effective date also being July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-21-403, 1-21-1008, 1-21-1009