Senate Floor Session-Day 4, February 12, 2026-PM [Source] Translate

The meeting began with the introduction of Michelle Roundy, Wyoming's 2026 Teacher of the Year, who emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in education and highlighted Wyoming's strong educational performance. She shared a personal story about a former student and concluded by expressing gratitude for support of public education. Roundy received a certificate of appreciation from the Senate. Senator Jones introduced his husband, Sweetwater County Commissioner Taylor Jones. The meeting proceeded with bill introductions, including Senate File 116 concerning stormwater drainage utilities, which was approved for introduction. Senator Crago welcomed officials from Buffalo, while Senator Larson introduced Senate Joint Resolution 8 regarding school funding, which failed to pass. Senator Salazar's Senate Joint Resolution 7, clarifying legislative authority over healthcare laws, also failed. Senator Bightman introduced Senate File 123, the Wyoming Energy Dominance Fund, which received overwhelming support and was referred to the Appropriations Committee. The meeting recognized students receiving the 2026 Shaping Wyoming's Future Student Awards. Senate File 7, concerning theft amendments, was read for a second time and ordered for a third reading. An amendment proposed by Senator Rothfuss to add intent to Senate File 8, addressing absconding for criminal purposes, failed after concerns were raised about its implications. Senate Files 10 and 18 were also read for a second time and ordered for a third reading without objection, as was Senate File 31, the Uniform Mortgage Modification Act. The Majority Floor Leader presented a consent list for third reading, which included several Senate Files that passed with majority votes. Senator Rothfuss raised a point of order regarding a voting error. Senator Barlow introduced faith leaders from across the state, encouraging recognition of their community support. The meeting transitioned to the budget bill, Senate File 1, with Senator Salazar moving for a favorable report. The budget bill detailed appropriations totaling $11.4 billion, with specific allocations for K-12 education and health programs. The Joint Appropriations Committee (JAC) discussed significant budget reductions, including a $4 million cut to the chief executive's budget requests and the denial of various funding requests. Major additions included funding for the state engineer's office and developmental disability services. The meeting included discussions on various sections of the budget, with specific attention to the Department of Transportation and the Department of Health. The JAC prohibited funds for abortions or gender transition procedures and addressed concerns about Medicaid funding cuts. The Department of Family Services saw the elimination of certain programs but retained the SNAP program. Further discussions focused on budget cuts to the University of Wyoming, with debates on the implications of a $40 million reduction in state operating aid. Senators expressed concerns about the impact on various programs, including athletics and critical minerals initiatives. The meeting concluded with a motion to rise and report on the budget bill actions and a transition to legislative business, including discussions on Senate File 28 related to voting systems, which passed with a do pass recommendation, along with Senate Files 30 and 80. The session adjourned until the next meeting.