The bill establishes new bonding requirements for oil and gas operators in Wyoming, mandating the oil and gas conservation commission to create rules that provide various bonding options. It introduces a bonding pool that operators can voluntarily join, contingent upon their good standing with the commission. The commission is also authorized to impose assessments on operators based on the market value of oil and gas produced, with specific provisions for the collection and use of these funds, particularly for plugging dry or abandoned wells and reclamation efforts. Additionally, the commission is required to report annually on the bonding program's status and financials.

Amendments to existing laws include the addition of bonding requirements under the new section 30-5-129, which complements existing regulations. The bill also modifies the language in sections related to the disposition of funds and surety bonds, ensuring that the funds collected are specifically allocated for the new bonding program and related expenses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with certain sections becoming effective immediately upon the bill's passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30-5-116, 30-5-404, 35-11-504
Engrossed: 30-5-116, 30-5-404, 35-11-504
Enrolled: 30-5-116, 30-5-404, 35-11-504