This bill amends existing law regarding the emergency breaching of dams or diversion systems by the state engineer in Wyoming. It introduces new requirements that must be met before an emergency order to breach can be executed. Specifically, the state engineer must first determine alternative solutions to breaching, hold at least two public meetings to discuss these alternatives and gather public input, and notify affected water rights holders and landowners about the proposed breach and meetings. Additionally, the owner of the reservoir or diversion is required to conduct a vote among water rights holders regarding the proposed breach action, with the voting power weighted according to the size of their water rights.

The bill also specifies that these new procedures apply to all breach orders issued after the effective date of the act. The state engineer is tasked with creating any necessary rules to implement these changes. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance public involvement and transparency in the decision-making process related to dam and diversion breaches, ensuring that community concerns and alternative solutions are adequately considered before any emergency actions are taken.

Statutes affected:
25LSO-0402 v0.10: 41-3-314