The bill authorizes the Wyoming legislature to initiate legal actions concerning the administration and interpretation of federal acts, emphasizing its jurisdiction over land within the state. It includes new findings that affirm the legislature's standing to prosecute actions for declaratory judgment related to various federal laws, such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act. The management council is empowered to commence litigation with a majority vote, replacing the previous requirement of a two-thirds vote. Additionally, the legislature is granted the ability to utilize funds for litigation purposes, with a specific appropriation of up to $75 million allocated for these actions.
Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedural framework for the legislature and the management council to direct legal actions, including the option to employ private counsel if necessary. An appropriation of $75 million from the general fund is designated for litigation purposes, effective until June 30, 2028, with any unspent funds reverting to the state by that date. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 28-8-114