This bill amends the Wyoming national guard member referral incentive program to enhance its effectiveness and broaden its eligibility criteria. Key changes include expanding the pool of individuals who can receive referral bonuses to include not only current Wyoming national guard members but also veterans of the Wyoming national guard, current employees of the military department, and recruits beginning the enlistment process. The referral bonus amount is increased from a maximum of $500 to $1,000, and the sunset date for the program is extended from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2028.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $250,000 from the general fund to the Wyoming military department specifically for the purpose of funding these referral bonuses. This appropriation is designated for use until June 30, 2028, and any unspent funds will revert as per the law. The bill aims to incentivize peer-to-peer recruiting to bolster the ranks of the Wyoming national guard, thereby enhancing the state's defense capabilities.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0030 v0.4: 19-9-403