Senate Floor Session-Day 6, February 16, 2026-AM [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming thirty senators present and one excused absence. Retired Reverend Richard Gilbert offered a prayer emphasizing courtesy and beneficial service. The journal from the previous meeting was approved without objections. The day was recognized as President's Day, along with National Almond Day and National Do a Grouch a Favor Day. Senator Cynthia Lummis was welcomed back, expressing gratitude for the Senate's work and highlighting Wyoming's leadership in energy, digital assets, and artificial intelligence. She noted legislative wins, including tax cuts for families and the repeal of certain firearm taxes, and announced that Kraken would fund a trust account for every child born in Wyoming in 2026. Lummis discussed the potential of artificial intelligence and energy in Wyoming, mentioning interest from tech companies and progress in nuclear energy with TerraPower. She acknowledged her team and reiterated her commitment to Wyoming's growth. The meeting included introductions of family members by several senators, recognition of community contributions, and a welcome to student pages. Senator Olson moved to re-refer Senate Joint Resolution 9, which was approved. Messages from the House included bills that passed, such as House Bill 4 on Medicaid coverage for birthing centers. Various Senate files were recommended for passage, including amendments to the Wyoming Energy Dominance Fund. The meeting proceeded to the second reading of bills, including Senate File 5 on hospital bankruptcy proceedings and Senate File 6 on Medicaid eligibility criteria, with an amendment on tuberculosis treatment eligibility adopted. Other bills discussed included Senate File 17 on Good Neighbor Authority Amendments and Senate Joint Resolution 1 on federal mineral leases. The third reading began with Senate File 8, addressing absconding for criminal purposes. An amendment clarifying intent was adopted, and after discussion, the bill passed with 17 votes in favor. Senate File 28 on elections and voting machine tests passed unanimously after an amendment for public participation was adopted. Senate File 30 on voter registration revisions also passed with a significant majority. Senate File 80, concerning electronic communication for the Department of Revenue, passed with 30 votes in favor. The Senate then resolved into a Committee of the Whole to consider Senate File 4, proposing a Medicaid rate increase for EMS services, which passed without opposition. Senate File 12, regarding the Wyoming National Guard reenlistment bonus program, was introduced to improve retention with bonuses of up to $5,000. The bill passed the Committee of the Whole. Senate File 13, amending the referral program for the National Guard, expanded eligibility and increased bonuses, passing despite some concerns. The meeting included discussions on the effectiveness of enlistment programs, with Senator Proffessor highlighting the success of Wyoming's bonus program. An amendment to increase funding for Senate File 13 was adopted. The meeting concluded with announcements of upcoming committee meetings and a motion to recess until 2 p.m., which was approved.