The bill amends existing law regarding the emergency breaching of dams or diversion systems by the state engineer. It introduces a new requirement that, unless there is an immediate danger necessitating a breach within ten days, the state engineer must first explore alternatives to breaching. Additionally, the state engineer is mandated to hold at least one public meeting in the area affected by the breach to gather public comments, notify those impacted about potential liabilities, and inform water rights holders and landowners about the proposed breach and the public meeting.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that these new procedures apply to all breach orders issued by the state engineer on or after the effective date of the act. It also requires the state engineer to create any necessary rules to implement these changes. The act is set to take effect immediately upon the completion of all legislative processes required for a bill to become law in Wyoming.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-3-314