This bill introduces a new provision, W.S. 16-3-116, which grants individuals the right to request a jury trial during contested case hearings under specific circumstances. These circumstances include situations where a person faces a sanction of at least $20, the loss of a significant liberty interest, or the denial, suspension, annulment, withdrawal, or revocation of a license. The presiding officer of the contested case will oversee the jury trial, which will consist of six jurors, and the jury's decision will serve as the final ruling for the contested case. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of existing law to incorporate this new right to a jury trial, including provisions for jury selection and the responsibilities of the presiding officer.

The bill also specifies that the right to a jury trial must be communicated in the notice provided to individuals involved in contested cases, and it outlines the procedures for empaneling a jury and conducting the trial in accordance with civil procedure rules. Furthermore, the act clarifies that it will apply to all contested cases initiated on or after July 1, 2025, and it will not retroactively grant the right to a jury trial for cases commenced or completed before that date. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-11-104, 1-11-106, 16-3-101, 16-3-107, 16-3-109, 16-3-110, 16-3-112, 16-3-113, 16-3-114