The bill amends and renames the existing coal-fired facility closures litigation funding account to the natural resource litigation account, ensuring that any funds currently in the account remain allocated for its intended purpose. It appropriates $7,500,000 from the general fund to this account, with stipulations that any unspent funds will revert by June 30, 2027. The funds are designated for litigation expenses related to defending Wyoming's interests against federal and state actions that may hinder the state's ability to manage its natural resources, particularly concerning coal.
Additionally, the bill mandates that the governor and attorney general provide annual reports to the joint appropriations committee and the joint minerals, business, and economic development interim committee from October 1, 2025, through October 1, 2027. These reports will detail the expenditures from the natural resource litigation account and the status of any related litigation. The previous legislation from 2023 Wyoming Session Laws, Chapter 6, is repealed, and the act takes effect immediately upon fulfilling the necessary legislative procedures.