Representative Andrew Byron provides legislative update on key bills impacting Wyoming, Freedom Caucus disappointments
Representative Andrew Byron Provides Legislative Update on Key Bills Impacting Wyoming, Freedom Caucus Disappointments
Contact: Representative Andrew Byron, House District 22
Email: Andrew.Byron@wyoleg.gov
Phone: 307-690-2767
CHEYENNE, WY – Representative Andrew Byron (HD 22) shares his perspective on new challenges reflected in elected officials’ votes, an update on significant legislative developments in the Wyoming House of Representatives, and insights into ongoing committee work.
The Importance of Informed and Engaged Legislators who vote for their Communities
Reflecting on the new dynamics within Wyoming’s 68th legislative session, Rep. Byron expressed concern over a new trend regarding legislators’ lack of engagement with bills and voting via a directive from a caucus rather than on behalf of their constituents.
“The games continue within the so-called freedom caucus, and it is disheartening to witness,” Byron said. Byron shared a recent anecdote where a Freedom Caucus member told Byron, “Sorry I voted against that bill; I had to vote that way.” Byron asked them if they knew what the bill did and they responded, “I didn’t read the bill, I don’t know.” Byron is serving his second term in office and this response is an example of a stark difference from the integrity and engagement he has seen from colleagues prior. “We are dealing with Representatives from districts across Wyoming who are not even reading bills or doing the honorable work asked of them when they are elected. I guarantee the good people of Wyoming did not vote for them to simply have them take marching orders from out-of-state actors.”
When asked about a solution, Byron responded. “Wyoming’s voters need to hold the people they elected accountable. They need to vote in the primary elections. It's that simple.”
SF 69 - SF 69 - Homeowner Property Tax Exemption - Heads to Joint Conference Committee
One of the most closely watched bills this session, SF 69, has passed the House with 36 amendments—an unprecedented number—before sending the bill back to the Senate. The Senate voted not to concur with the House’s changes, meaning SF 69 will now proceed to a joint conference committee for further negotiation.
“SF 69 impacts the two counties in my district very differently than the rest of the state,” said Rep. Byron, “a late-night amendment introduced by Gillette Rep. John Bear directly targets affordable housing programs important to the Town of Jackson” Additionally Byron stated, “Lincoln County is going to see significant impacts to essential services if the property tax bills don’t have a backfill.”
Representative Byron’s ‘yes’ vote was highlighted in the local press this week, however, he explained, “I voted for the House version knowing the Senate would reject the amendments, which would then send the bill to the conference committee. My hope is that the final version will include a 25% exemption on the first $1,000,000 of a home’s fair market value, as this would provide the most fair and equitable path forward for Wyoming homeowners.”
HB 275 - Treatment of Animals - Advances in the Senate
Rep. Byron continues to champion HB 275 as the bill’s primary sponsor. Earlier today, the bill successfully passed the Senate Travel, Recreation, and Wildlife (TRW) Committee with a 4-1 vote and now moves to the Senate’s general file.
“I am grateful for the support HB 275 has received so far,” Byron stated. “Now, I must rely on my Senate colleagues to carry the bill forward. With strong cosponsors behind me, I am optimistic about its progress in the coming days.”
HB 45 - Removing Otters as Protected Species - Awaits Governor’s Signature
Another bill sponsored by Representative Byron, HB 45, which addresses wildlife management pertaining to otters, has successfully passed both the House and Senate and now awaits final approval from Governor Mark Gordon.
During earlier debates, HB 45 faced misinformation in the media about what the bill actually does. WyoFile has clarified this in a final news piece about HB 45 which can be found here. “I appreciate the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for clarifying concerns surrounding HB 45,” Byron said. “Otters are a critical part of our ecosystem, and this bill does not threaten their continued presence on our waterways.”
Committee Work and Legislative Efforts
As Chairman of the House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife, and Cultural Resources Committee, Rep. Byron has overseen the passage of three out of four assigned bills this session. These include legislation addressing sage grouse conservation, the scope of authority for state park peace officers, and pari-mutuel rodeo regulations. SF 02 Hunting Licenses Weighted Bonus Points System, which proposed changes to the preference points system for big horn sheep and moose, did not advance this year.
“I supported SF 62 because hunting demand has increased and some animal species struggle under conditions created with the current system. However, my colleagues did not. That's a great example of our beautiful system of government in Wyoming” Byron noted. “While it won’t move forward this session, I remain committed to finding solutions that work for Wyoming’s sportsmen and wildlife management.”
Sincerely,
Andrew P. Byron