Wyoming Legislature update – March 7, 2021
by Albert Sommers, House District #20 Representative
March 8, 2021
3/7/2021
Hello Sublette County, this is Albert Sommers reporting to you from Cheyenne on March 7, 2021. On Friday, March 5, seven bills passed Committee of the Whole, including my bill, HB0101, Elk feedground closings - requirements, which would move the decision to close an elk feedground from the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission to the Governor. I drafted this bill because I am worried that the federal government will refuse to reauthorize elk feedgrounds that exist on federal land, so it may become more convenient to close elk feedgrounds rather than look for new locations.
Closure of elk feedgrounds could have a devastating effect on elk numbers, hunter opportunity, and on livestock producers in Sublette County. Brucellosis is endemic in the elk herds in Sublette County. Without elk feedgrounds, elk would likely spread the disease to cattle when they commingle with cattle on cattle feedlines to keep from starving. This bill puts in place a thoughtful process of review and public comment which would take place if the Commission were to recommend closure of an elk feedground, and prior to the Governor making a final decision.
HB0121, State funded capital construction, would authorize the expenditure of private, federal and state funds to do a modest number of capital construction projects. These projects will help create jobs in Wyoming.
HB0133, Online sports wagering, would regulate and authorize online sports wagering in Wyoming. Currently, you can go online and offshore to wager on sporting events illegally. This bill would regulate that activity, and make certain types of online wagering legal. This would generate money for the State of Wyoming, but could increase gambling addiction in our state. I have not decided how I will vote on this bill in third reading. I am drafting an amendment to put money from the proceeds towards prevention of gambling addiction.
This week, the Legislature will work on the budget and K12 funding, and those topics will likely encompass the entirety of the week.
I can be reached at albert@albertsommers.com with questions or comments.
Thank you.
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