The bill amends the governance structure of the University of Wyoming by increasing the number of trustees on the board from twelve to nineteen, which includes fourteen voting trustees and five ex officio, nonvoting trustees. The new structure mandates that seven voting trustees will be appointed by the governor, while the remaining seven will be elected. The bill specifies that at least one voting trustee must be appointed and one elected from each designated appointment district. Additionally, it establishes the terms for both appointed and elected trustees, with appointed trustees serving six-year terms and elected trustees serving four-year terms. The terms of the current appointed trustees will expire after the 2026 general election, at which point the new structure will take effect.

The bill also includes various conforming amendments to the election code, ensuring that the elections for the University of Wyoming board of trustees align with existing election laws. It specifies the election process, including the timing of elections, the nomination of candidates, and the filling of vacancies. Notably, it repeals duplicative provisions and clarifies that the costs associated with the elections will be borne by the respective boards. The act is set to take effect immediately upon completion of all necessary legislative procedures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-17-202, 21-17-207