Senate Floor Session-Day 15, February 26, 2026-AM [Source] Translate

The Senate meeting began with a roll call confirming 29 members present and 2 excused. Pastor Edward Daggett led the opening prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The journal from the previous day was approved without objections. Dr. Angus McAlpin was introduced as the doctor of the day, and Alicia Lepard was recognized as the nurse of the day. A historical note about Grand Teton National Park's establishment in 1929 was shared, along with a quote from Nelson Mandela. Wyoming's ninth poet laureate, Barbara Smith, recited poetry reflecting on Wyoming's nature and people. Senator Case recognized women in the trucking industry and highlighted Dr. McAlpin's contributions to the Shoshone Health Program. The Senate was reminded of the deadline for interim topic submissions, set for noon the following day. Discussions included various bills, notably Senate File 16 on subleasing state lands, which passed with a concurrence vote. Reports from standing committees included recommendations for several House Bills, such as House Bill 10 on sexually explicit materials in libraries, House Bill 98 on gun seizure penalties, and House Bill 145 on removing triple taxation for resident EV drivers. Several House Bills were read for a second time, including House Bill 8 on stalking minors, House Bill 9 on grooming of children, and House Bill 26 on vehicle registration fees for tribal governments. An amendment to House Bill 9 was adopted to remove unnecessary language. Senator Rothfuss proposed an amendment to House Bill 111 regarding state-funded capital construction, allowing flexibility for the university in managing a previously designated green area. This amendment was discussed and supported by several senators. Further discussions included a proposal for a parking lot at the University of Wyoming, with Senator Landon emphasizing community requests and Senator Hicks raising cost concerns. Senator Rothfuss clarified the amendment's origin from the Associated Students of the University of Wyoming. The discussion shifted to House Bill 111's second reading amendment number two, proposing funding for a new building at Gillette College, which would require matching funds from non-state sources. Senator Driscoll noted the building would be named after a long-serving senator and highlighted the need for Gillette College to raise its mill levy to access state funds. Senator Barlow supported the amendment, emphasizing the college's potential to train a workforce for upcoming industries. Senator Steinmetz questioned the necessity of state funds, while Senator Anderson argued for state support. The second reading amendment number two was adopted. House Bill 112 was read for a third time without objection. Various groups, including students from Fort Casper Academy and representatives from the Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts, were welcomed. The Senate addressed the consent list for several bills, with House Bill 85 removed for further discussion due to concerns from county clerks regarding election-related legislation. Significant opposition to House Bill 85 was noted, with senators expressing concerns about the bill's process and its impact on election administration. Senator Pearson supported the bill, while others raised issues about its necessity and potential confusion. Ultimately, the Senate voted 9 in favor and 21 against, leading to the bill's failure. The meeting transitioned to the Committee of the Whole, where House Bill 2 concerning Fast Track Permits was introduced and discussed, aiming to streamline the permitting process for residential construction. The meeting concluded with a motion to rise and break for lunch, which was approved. Senator Brennan announced the Senate Labor Health and Social Services Committee would meet the following day to consider House Bill 41 regarding retirement benefits for the Wyoming Highway Patrol and House Bill 126, the Human Heartbeat Act. Other committees were scheduled to meet to discuss various bills, including House Bill 83 on legislative subpoena penalties and House Bill 159 on safeguarding personal expression at K-12 schools. The meeting concluded with a motion to remain in recess until 2 PM, which was approved. An informal update regarding the general file list for the afternoon was provided.