This bill amends the Wyoming state forestry good neighbor authority revolving account by removing the previous restrictions on the number of authorized employee positions and allowing for the hiring of additional employees funded by various sources, not just federal funds. Specifically, the bill deletes the limitation on the number of full-time and at-will employee positions that could be filled, enabling the state forester to hire as necessary for good neighbor authority projects. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for accepting grants, gifts, transfers, bequests, and donations into the account, while explicitly prohibiting the acceptance of real property for good neighbor authority purposes.

The bill also empowers the state forester to accept these funds and donations, including those with specific limitations set by the grantor, and ensures that funds in the account are continuously appropriated for the intended projects. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026. Overall, the changes aim to enhance the operational capacity of the good neighbor authority by increasing funding flexibility and staffing capabilities.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0125 v0.4: 36-1-502, 36-1-503