The bill proposes a significant overhaul of the attorney general's position in Wyoming, transitioning it from an appointed role to an elected one starting with the 2026 general election. It establishes a four-year term for the attorney general and outlines a new process for filling vacancies, which will now require Senate confirmation. The qualifications for candidates are also modified, mandating that they must have practiced law for at least four years and maintain good standing with the state's courts. Additionally, the bill repeals previous provisions regarding interim appointments and clarifies the attorney general's duties, including adherence to the Ethics and Disclosure Act.

Moreover, the legislation amends various sections of Wyoming law to reflect the attorney general's new status as an elected official, increasing the list of state elected officials from five to six. It enhances the attorney general's authority by allowing the appointment of assistant and special assistant attorneys general without gubernatorial consent and enabling the initiation of legal actions and investigations independently of the governor. The bill also introduces a salary of $175,000 for the attorney general and establishes a statewide protection order registry under the office's purview, thereby expanding its responsibilities and aiming to improve accountability and transparency.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9-1-601, 9-5-101, 22-2-105, 22-6-117