The bill authorizes the Wyoming legislature to initiate legal actions concerning the administration and interpretation of federal acts, emphasizing its jurisdiction over land within the state. It includes new findings that affirm the legislature's standing to prosecute actions for declaratory judgment related to various federal laws, such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act. The bill also allows the management council to initiate litigation with a majority vote, replacing the previous requirement of a two-thirds vote.
Additionally, the bill establishes that the legislature can utilize up to $75 million from the legislative stabilization reserve account for litigation purposes. It modifies existing legal language to clarify the legislature's authority and standing in these matters, while also providing for the employment of legal counsel as needed. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 28-8-114