Senate Floor Session-Day 13, February 24, 2026-AM [Source] Translate

The Senate meeting began with a roll call confirming 31 members present. Pastor Tommy Miller from First Baptist Church led the opening prayer, emphasizing the need for wisdom among legislators. Senator Hutchings led the Pledge of Allegiance. The Journal Committee reported the previous day's Journal was approved without objections. Stacy Householder and Arturo Perez from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) were introduced, available to discuss their services with legislators. Messages from the House included the passage of several bills, such as House Bill 70 (Wyoming Granite Act) and House Bill 39 (Firearms Rights Restoration Amendments). The Senate received reports recommending the passage of House Bill 87 (omnibus water bill planning) and House Bill 26 (vehicle registration fees for tribal governments). Senator Rothfuss introduced second graders from Indian Paintbrush Elementary School, and Senator Dockstader introduced the Star Valley Middle School Student Council. Senator Shuler invited members to a leadership event hosted by the Wyoming Women's Leadership Legislative Caucus, while Senator Nethercott recognized the Leadership Cheyenne class. The Senate moved to the second reading of bills, including House Bill 4 (birthing centers, Medicaid coverage) and House Bill 5 (oil and gas bonding pool investment). Senator Giroux recognized advocates for hunger relief present in the gallery, including the First Lady. During the third reading of bills, a consent list was presented by the Majority Floor Leader, resulting in the passage of several bills, including Senate File 21 (Wyoming Stable Token Amendments) and Senate File 72 (Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact). The voting results showed a majority in favor, with some bills receiving no votes or being removed from the consent list. Senate File 99, concerning Prescriptive Easements for Electricity Delivery, was discussed in detail. An amendment proposed by Senator Steinmetz clarified liability for electricity users, which was supported by Senator Cooper but raised concerns from Senator Case about the high standard of gross negligence. The amendment was adopted with 29 in favor and 2 against, and Senate File 99 passed. Senate File 106, concerning Welfare Fraud Prevention Act Amendments, was addressed. An initial amendment was withdrawn due to conflicting federal regulations, and a second amendment was introduced by Senator Scott. The president assured the bill would continue to be refined in committee. The Senate voted on Senate File 106, which passed with 29 votes in favor and 2 against. Senate File 110, concerning residential property tax revisions, passed with the same voting outcome. Senate File 121, related to the Wyoming Pharmacy Act, faced opposition from Senator Pearson due to concerns about childhood vaccines. Senator Dockstader defended the bill, which passed with 27 votes in favor and 4 against. Senate File 125, concerning amendments to the Wyoming Business Council, was introduced. An amendment proposed by Senator Steinmetz faced opposition from several senators, leading to a roll call vote that resulted in 15 votes in favor and 16 against, causing its failure. Senator Cronkite requested that Senate File 125 be laid back for one day, which was approved. The meeting included announcements from several senators regarding upcoming committee meetings and welcomed various groups. The meeting concluded with a motion to recess until 2 PM, which was adopted.