The bill establishes a new legal framework that prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from compelling employees to use preferred pronouns as a condition of employment or access to benefits. Specifically, it states that no employee can be required to refer to another employee by their preferred pronouns under threat of adverse action, such as employment consequences or sanctions. Individuals who believe they have been wronged by such a violation are granted the right to file a civil action against the state or political subdivisions, seeking various forms of relief, including compensatory damages and attorney fees.

Additionally, the bill amends the Wyoming governmental claims act to include an exception for the newly created section on compelled speech, thereby clarifying that immunity from tort liability does not apply in cases related to compelled speech violations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and will apply to civil actions initiated on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-39-104