Kevin O'Hearn

This bill, the Wyoming Repeal Gun Free Zones Act, repeals most "gun-free zones" in the state by allowing individuals with a concealed carry permit to possess a firearm in public schools, including colleges and universities, and other locations. Support is the Limited Government Position as "gun free zones" do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law.

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Repealing "Gun-Free Zones".

The Sommers amendment #H2002 to the Wyoming Repeal Gun Free Zones Act. This amendment adds language to provisions that allow individuals with a concealed carry permit to possess a firearm in public schools, including colleges and universities, and other locations. Under the amendment, this is only allowed if the school authorizes concealed carry. The amendment also adds language providing that schools are not prevented "from prohibiting or restricting the carrying of firearms, including the carrying of concealed weapons" on school property. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment provides schools and universities much greater ability to place additional regulations on firearms.

Weakening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Undermining the Bill Repealing Most Gun-Free Zones.

This bill, the biennial appropriations bill, enacts the budget for fiscal years 2025-2026. As passed by the legislature, the budget includes over $11 billion in appropriations and transfers and 7,149 full-time employees. Most notably, the budget appropriates over $2.2 billion for the Department of Health and over $771.9 million for the Community College Commission and the University of Wyoming. Other provisions in the bill include $2.5 million for matching funds for "economic development and community assistance" if a public airport is selected for the National Championship Air Races, $17 million to the University of Wyoming "for demonstrations of coal solvent extraction and a coal-derived asphalt road" and $1 million "to increase the library collections' biennial budget." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Enacting an $11 Billion Budget - the Largest in State History with Significant Waste.

The Northrup amendment #H2016 to the appropriations bill. This amendment appropriates an additional $4 million to the Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust for "preservation of open spaces by purchase or acquisition of development rights" and "conservation, maintenance, protection and development of Wyoming farmlands and natural resources". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization - including for conservation purposes. Measures such as this merely drive-up taxpayer costs and oftentimes lead to even greater government spending surrounding usage and preservation of the conserved land. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful Spending by Providing an Additional $4 Million in Funding for the Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust for Unnecessary Conservation Initiatives.

The Provenza amendment #H2017 to the appropriations bill. This amendment directs the state to seek a federal waiver to expand eligibility for family planning benefits under the state's Medicaid welfare program to individuals who are under 45 and have an income of less than 100% of the federal poverty level. The amendment also hikes spending to conduct "targeted outreach efforts to increase long-acting reversible contraception use." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these spending initiatives go against the principles of fiscal restraint and limited government, while further trapping individuals into government dependency and growing the welfare state. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Government Dependency through Expanded Family Planning Benefits Under the Medicaid Welfare Program and Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Marketing to Increase Contraceptive Usage.

The Davis amendment #H2026 to the appropriations bill. This amendment appropriates an additional $2.5 million to the University of Wyoming for matching funds "for support for excellence in research, education and extension in ranch and rangeland management, agronomy and soil science." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of the private sector - not government - to fund  soil and agriculture research. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful Spending by Subsidizing Agriculture Research Through an Additional $2.5 Million to the University of Wyoming.

The Larsen amendment #H2034 to the appropriations bill. This amendment requires taxpayers to provide $25 million in matching funds for broadband expansion, which will unlock additional funds under the federal "Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector and free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. This measure forces taxpayers to enrich woke corporations such as Comcast for infrastructure which may soon be unnecessary due to significant advances in satellite technology from Comcast's competitors such as Elon Musk's Starlink.

Enriching Comcast and Other Woke Corporations by Forcing Taxpayers to Provide "Broadband Equity" Through a Government Central Planning Scheme.

The Henderson amendment #H2044 to the appropriations bill. This amendment appropriates over $7.3 million to provide a one-time payment to most state retirees receiving a retirement or pension who began receiving benefits before July 1, 2023. The payment is equal to 1% of the individual's annual benefit amount. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this provides an additional benefit to retirees which was not contracted for. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Providing $7.3 Million in Unpromised Payouts to Pension Beneficiaries.

The Hornok amendment #H2048 to the appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the $15 million appropriated to the Wyoming Innovation Partnership, which aims to better align Wyoming's economic development agenda by increasing collaborations between state entities and ultimately local partners. Support is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns for the state's economy. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Wasteful Spending and Government Central Planning by Eliminating $15 Million in Funding for the Wyoming Innovation Partnership Economic Development Program.

The Ward amendment #H2068 to the appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the over $96 million appropriated to the Wyoming Business Council, which "focuses on identifying problems and breaking down barriers obstructing a more resilient economy." Support is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns for the state's economy. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Wasteful Spending and Government Central Planning by Eliminating Over $96 Million in Funding for the Wyoming Business Council.

The Crago amendment #H3010 to the appropriations bill. This amendment adds language to an earlier amendment which prohibits funds appropriated to the Department of Health from being used for gender transition, gender reassignment, or abortion procedures. The Crago amendment adds additional exceptions to the prohibition on using appropriated funds for abortions by providing that it does not include abortions to prevent death or "serious and permanent impairment of a life-sustaining organ" of the woman, or abortion for pregnancy caused by incest or sexual assault. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment creates a loophole in the prohibition of appropriated funds being used for abortions. Taxpayers, many of whom are opposed to abortion on religious grounds, should not be forced to fund abortion.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Abortion by Expanding Exceptions to the Prohibition on Funds Appropriated to the Department of Health from Being Used to Fund Abortion.

The Chestek amendment #H3013 to the appropriations bill. This amendment appropriates an additional $1.15 million in state funds to the Department of Family Services for administrative costs of expanding the Child Nutrition Program (i.e., free school lunch) to provide funds during the summer months when school is out. The new spending will unlock additional funds under the federal Child Nutrition Program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows government dependency, which oftentimes leads to intergenerational poverty. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Dependency and Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Expanding Child Nutrition Benefits.

The Allemand amendment #H3016 to the appropriations bill. This amendment cuts the appropriation to the Wyoming Tourism Board by $1 million by reducing funding for purposes of planning and providing grants for initiatives recognizing the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the declaration of independence. Support is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to handle festivities. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Wasteful Spending Outside the Proper Scope of Government by Cutting $1 Million in Tourism Board Funding.

The Ward amendment #H3019.02 to the appropriations bill. This amendment prohibits the University of Wyoming from using any of the $37 million appropriated in "Endowments and Matching" funds for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The funds also may not be used "on any diversity, equity and inclusion program, activity or function." Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to fund advanced degrees for select individuals who decide to pursue higher education in the first place, let alone fund politicized activities. This bill serves as a step in the right direction to protecting taxpayers and reducing politicalization at state colleges and universities.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Being Utilized for Politicized "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" (DEI) Programs at the University of Wyoming.

This bill, the Property Tax Reduction and Replacement Act, exempts $1 million in property value from property taxes (covering 97% of properties), until at least July 1, 2034. The decreased revenue is replaced by increasing the sales and use tax from 4% to 6%. According to the bill's fiscal note, this is estimated to decrease property taxes by $231.9 million in 2024, $460.3 million in 2025, and $474.1 million in 2026. Support is the Limited Government Position as this pro-growth taxation change encourages investment and more equitably distributes tax burdens.

Enacting Pro-Growth Tax Reform by Decreasing Property Taxes and Replacing with an Increased Sales and Use Tax.

This bill expands existing law that allows the legislature to bring certain legal challenges. Under the bill, the legislature may now challenge "federal acts including federal purchases of land within the state." The bill allows the legislative management council to borrow up to $75 million from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account for the legal challenges. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides the authority to challenge overreaching federal actions. While the bill allows the legislature to spend significant funds from the rainy-day fund, the bill contains repayment provisions designed to protect taxpayers.

Protecting Wyoming Residents from Federal Government Overreach by Authorizing the Legislature to Bring Legal Challenges to Federal Actions.

This bill requires that the Public Service Commission, when determining electric utility rates for interstate utilities, exclude system costs that do not benefit Wyoming residents, such as proportional costs for facilities that primarily benefit other states, and certain other costs. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill protects against higher electric utility rates by ensuring Wyoming residents are not forced to pay for costs that benefit customers in other states.

Protecting Wyoming Residents from Higher Electric Utility Rates by Excluding System Costs from Recovery that Do Not Benefit Wyoming Residents.

This bill exempts the Division of Banking from the state's compensation plan established by the Human Resources Division, which applies to all executive branch employees except the University of Wyoming and community colleges. The bill instead allows the State Banking Commissioner to set the salaries for the division's employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this special exemption reduces accountability and oversight and paves the way for lavish salaries.

Reducing Accountability and Paving the Way for Lavish Government Salaries Through a Special Salary Exemption for Division of Banking Employees.

This bill creates a new program to provide one set of hearing aids every five years to individuals 18 or older with a family income of 200% or less of the federal poverty line, and who are not eligible to receive hearing aids through private insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing Government Dependency Through a New Welfare Program to Provide Free Hearing Aids.

This motion overrides the Governor's veto of a bill that authorizes school district-approved charter schools to operate as a local education agency for purposes of applying for state and federal grants. The bill also requires school districts to include charter schools within the district when distributing funds based on attendance. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes and Expanding School Choice by Making it Easier for Charter Schools to Apply for Grants.

This bill amends the Wyoming Food Freedom Act to allow the sale of certain uninspected meat products. This includes meat from cattle, sheep, swine, and goats, and the animals must be raised in the state and slaughtered on the producer's property or at a "custom slaughter facility" (facilities with no state or federal inspector). The products may only be sold directly to consumers and must include a warning that the meat was not inspected. Such sales are currently prohibited under federal law, so this would only take effect if the federal law were changed, or a court strikes down the prohibition. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases food freedom and consumer choice by allowing producers to sell their products directly to consumers without government inspection.

Increasing Food Freedom by Allowing the Sale of Certain Uninspected Meat Products if Allowed Under Federal Law.

This bill makes it illegal to sell nicotine dispensing devices, such as vaping products and e-cigarettes, that are not listed on the state directory. The ban begins either February 1, 2026 or when the directory is publicly available, whichever is later. To be included in the directory, a product must be authorized or pending review by the FDA. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill infringes individual liberties and expands government overreach through a one-size-fits-all government mandate. The bill provides an advantage to big tobacco companies and is expected to drive countless small vape shops out of business.

Expanding Government Overreach and Infringing Individual Liberties by Prohibiting the Sale of Nicotine Dispensing Devices Not Authorized by the FDA.

This bill, the Prohibit Red Flag Gun Seizure Act, prohibits the state and local governments from enacting or enforcing a "red flag gun seizure order," which allows a court to issue an order authorizing a firearm seizure based on an "ex-parte" (one-sided) petition that alleges the firearms owner is a danger to themselves or others. Support is the Limited Government Position as the one-sided petition violates due process under the law (an individual can't provide their defense) and these programs often lack provisions that prevent nefarious individuals from abusing the system to harass or harm law-abiding individuals, thus unduly infringing their Second Amendment protections and leaving them defenseless.

Blocking the Seizure of Firearms without Due Process by Prohibiting "Red Flag" Laws.

This motion recalls (advances by forcing out of committee) a bill that authorizes non-school district entities to operate 3 additional charter schools starting July 1, 2024 (previously 1 additional charter school starting July 1, 2026). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes and Expanding School Choice by Authorizing Additional Charter Schools.

This motion recalls (advances by forcing out of committee) a bill that provides that driver's licenses issued by a state to illegal immigrants are invalid in Wyoming. This includes both special driver's licenses issued only to illegal immigrants, as well as driver's licenses that indicate the person did not provide proof of legal residence. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps deter illegal immigration, which places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.

Strengthening National Security by Providing that Driver's Licenses Issued by Other States to Illegal Immigrants are Invalid.

This bill expands eligibility for the state property tax credit by increasing the maximum income threshold, from 125% of the median gross household income for the county, to 165%. Individuals with an income over 125% are eligible for a reduced percentage of the credit. The bill also applies to counties that adopt an optional property tax refund. Support is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.

Providing Property Tax Relief by Expanding the Property Tax Credit Maximum Income Threshold.

This bill allows the Department of Health to increase its budget request if "compensation to state public health nursing employees is increased." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government spending. Rather than request budget increases, the department should reduce unnecessary spending elsewhere. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Authorizing the Department of Health to Request Budget Increases for Nurse Compensation Rather than Reduce Unnecessary Spending.

This bill expands the scope of capital construction projects by adding "major maintenance" and "alteration or enlargement" to the definition. As a result, state funds for projects through the State Construction Department may be used for a larger number of projects for state and college properties. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases taxpayer costs by expanding taxpayer-funded state construction projects, as the State Construction Department makes funding recommends.

Increasing Taxpayer-Funded State Construction Projects by Expanding the Scope of Capital Construction Projects.

This bill establishes a new severance tax on hydrogen production. Under the bill, hydrogen produced from water is taxed at either 3% or 6%, depending on the water used. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This bill will drive-up energy production costs and reduce investment in hydrogen production in the state.

Driving Up Hydrogen Energy Production Costs Through a New Severance Tax.

This bill appropriates $2.15 million for three wildlife and natural resource projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization - including for conservation purposes. Measures such as this merely drive-up taxpayer costs and oftentimes lead to even greater government spending surrounding usage and preservation of the conserved land. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Appropriating $2.15 Million for Three Wildlife and Natural Resource Projects.

The Smith amendment #H3022 to the appropriations bill. This amendment reduces the appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council for the Investment Ready Commission by $29 million (over 57% of the total appropriation). Support is the Limited Government Position as, while lawmakers should eliminate the Wyoming Business Council completely, this amendment is a step in right direction toward reducing corporate welfare and cronyism. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Cronyism and Corporate Welfare by Cutting the Appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council by $29 Million.

The Heiner amendment #H3037 to the appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the section appropriating over $9.3 million to provide matching funds for gifts to community colleges. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is a role for taxpayers to fund K-12 education - not advanced degrees for select individuals who decide to pursue higher education. This bill serves as a step in the right direction to protecting taxpayers and reducing politicalization at state colleges and universities. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending by Eliminating Over $9.3 Million in Additional Funding for Community Colleges.

The Berger amendment #H3043 to the appropriations bill. This amendment appropriates $1 million to the Wyoming Business Council for grants to local governments for major maintenance or water and sewer infrastructure development of public rodeo arenas or public fairgrounds. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as local governments (in conjunction with the owners of rodeos and fairgrounds) should be the ones responsible for these costs. Taxpayers in urban areas should not be forced to subsidize the amenities of individuals who choose to locate in rural or other portions of the state. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Appropriating $1 Million for Unnecessary Rodeo and Fairground Maintenance and Infrastructure Projects.

The Hornok amendment #H3046 to the appropriations bill. This amendment reduces the appropriation for matching funds for large energy projects by $100 million (50%). This includes projects such as carbon capture, hydrogen production, and wind and solar energy. Additionally, the amendment requires legislative approval before funds may be provided. Support is the Limited Government Position as, not only should taxpayers not be forced to subsidize energy projects, this measure helps protect against boondoggles by requiring legislative approval. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending by Cutting  Funding for Large Energy Projects by $100 Million and Requiring Legislative Approval of Usage.

The Hornok amendment #H3068 to the appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates language in the bill which appropriates $3.4 million to pay a portion of state employees' retirement contributions. Support is the Limited Government Position as these costs should not be shifted onto taxpayers. The only time the employer share (taxpayer share) should be increased is for efforts to reduce unfunded liabilities within a state pension system - which should be done in conjunction with increased employee contributions.

Protecting Taxpayers from Being Forced to Fund a Larger Share of State Employee Retirement Contributions.

This bill provides a 50% property tax exemption to individuals who are 65 or older and have paid property taxes in the state for at least 25 years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while the intent of this bill is noble, all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Providing a property tax exemption for one set of individuals inevitably results in tax burdens being shifted to other property owners not favored by government, including taxpayers statewide and seniors who rent homes. Additionally, this bill merely masks the underlying cause for rapidly rising property taxes - out of control government spending.

Increasing Property Tax Burdens by Creating a Property Tax Exemption for Certain Older Individuals Which Merely Shifts Burdens onto other Property Owners and Masks Underlying Spending Problems.

This bill exempts property value that is more than a 4% annual increase from property taxes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides broad property tax relief to homeowners. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.

Providing Property Tax Relief by Exempting Annual Property Value Increases Exceeding 4%.

This bill, the Wyoming Education Savings Accounts Act, contains a major provision which requires taxpayers to fund Pre-K for households whose income is up to 250% of the federal poverty line. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as,. While it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice - taxpayers should not be forced to fund preschool programs. A better school choice bill, HB 166, was introduced later in the session.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Prekindergarten Through Inclusion in the Education Savings Account (ESA) Program School Choice Bill.

This bill, the Wyoming Education Savings Accounts Act, allows all students who are eligible to enroll in public K-12 (or at least 4 years old but not yet old enough to attend public school), and whose household income is 500% or less of the federal poverty line, to receive funding for prekindergarten or educational expenses such as tuition at a private school, textbooks, and tutoring. The Governor later line-item vetoed a portion of the bill to reduce the maximum household income to 150% of the federal poverty line. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Expanding School Choice Through an Education Savings Account Program.

This bill repeals the certificate of need requirement for nursing care facilities, which prohibited a facility from adding additional beds unless, on average, more than 85% of nursing facility beds within 30 miles were occupied. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while certificate of need laws should be eliminated entirely, this bill slightly reduces anti-competitive regulations which drive-up healthcare costs and reduce the availability of services.

Improving Nursing Care Availability by Slightly Reforming the State's Draconian Certificate of Need Law.

This bill contains a number of provisions designed to strengthen parental rights. Firstly, the bill requires school districts to obtain parental consent for a student to receive instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity. Secondly, it requires parental consent for a student to take any well-being questionnaire or health screenings. Thirdly, school districts are forbidden from enacting any policies which prohibit school personnel from notifying parents of a "student's educational, physical, mental or emotional health or well-being", among other protections, such as access to their child's student health records. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights in their child's education are a critical element of a free society. This measure ensures children are not subjected to sensitive topics without the consent of parents.

Strengthening the Integrity of the Public Education System by Increasing Parental Rights.

This bill provides that for covenants on residential property, providing day care services for up to 10 children is considered "a residential use of property and is a residential purpose." As a result, covenants, such as homeowner associations, may not restrict or prohibit providing such services. This only applies to covenants adopted on or after July 1, 2024. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to interfere in the private contracting agreements between private parties absent cases of fraud or criminal activity. Such covenant arrangements should be made privately, with courts available to solve any breach.

Infringing Private Contracting Rights Through a New Mandate on Residential Covenants Concerning Childcare.

This bill requires a person to be a resident of the state for at least 30 days prior to voting. The bill includes an exception allowing individuals who are otherwise qualified to vote for president and vice president only. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Strengthening Election Integrity by Requiring Voters to Reside in the State for At Least 30 Days Prior to Voting.

This motion recalls (advances by forcing out of committee) a bill that prohibits outside groups from funding the administration of election operations. The bill is in response to the over $400 million in "Zuckerbucks" and other outside funds that were provided to influence elections across the nation. Support is the Limited Government Position as the private funding of election operations introduces serious concerns over the integrity and fairness of election outcomes, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Increasing Election Integrity by Prohibiting the Usage of Private Funds for Election Administration

This bill doubles the number of employees the State Forester may hire for Good Neighbor Authority projects and other federal cooperative projects. The bill authorizes 4 full-time employees (previously 1) and 6 contract employees (previously 4). These positions are funded through federal funds for forest management projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands bureaucracy and spending through State Forester staff expansion. While federal funds are used for the positions, state and federal lawmakers should privatize and sell federal and state land - including enormous land holdings west of the Mississippi. The private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization. Further growing government control and ownership of land merely drives up taxpayer costs and leads to further government spending initiatives.

Expanding Government Bureaucracy by Doubling State Forester Staff for Federal Forest Management Projects.

This motion recalls (advances by forcing out of committee) a bill that repeals existing state law that allows the State Health Officer to "subject a person to vaccination or medical treatment without consent" during a public health emergency if a minor's parent or guardian cannot be located and the vaccine or treatment is reasonably needed to protect the public health or protect the minor child from disease, death, disability or suffering. The bill also repeals a similar provision allowing minors 12 or older to consent to a tobacco cessation program. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights is a critical element of a free society. It is the role of parents - not government bureaucrats - to evaluate the risks and benefits of providing their child a vaccination.

Strengthening Individual Liberties and Parental Rights by Requiring Parental Consent to Administer Vaccinations to Minors During a Public Health Emergency.

This bill establishes a board for the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Account and provides a $6 million biennial appropriation. Funds may be used for grants for purposes such as construction or improvement of "outdoor recreational infrastructure" and for "public access easements", with projects of $200,000 or more requiring legislative approval. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending Through the Creation of an Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Account Board.

This bill amends the state's Reliable and Dispatchable Low-Carbon Energy Standards, which require a certain percentage of electricity generated by public utility companies to be "dispatchable and reliable low-carbon electricity." Under the bill, "Low-carbon" now requires public utilities to capture at least 75% of baseline carbon dioxide emissions, as well as a minimum total amount. Previously, the standard was a maximum level of carbon dioxide emissions. Existing law allows public utilities to recover the costs of meeting these standards through a fee of up to 2% of a customer's electric bill, and the utilities are allowed to recover the costs before the projects are completed. The bill also delays the date by which the Public Service Commission must set the percentages of "dispatchable and reliable low-carbon electricity" from July 1, 2030 to July 1, 2033. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill unnecessarily drives up electricity costs for families and businesses in order to advance a politicized environmental and climate change agenda and places ratepayers even further on the hook for the enormous cost of the carbon capture technology.

Hiking Electricity Rates by Imposing Carbon Dioxide Capture Requirements on Public Utilities.

This bill increases the maximum amount of electricity a "customer-generator" may produce.. Under the bill, the maximum is increased from 25kW to 750 kW. As a result, businesses, irrigators, and municipalities may produce more power and still be considered a "customer-generator" rather than a public utility (which would result in a substantial number of additional regulations). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides greater freedom in the energy sector and helps ensure affordable electricity rates.

Ensuring Affordable Electricity Rates by Increasing the Cap on Customer-Electricity Generation.

This bill contains a major provision which requires taxpayers to provide matching funds for broadband expansion, which will unlock additional funds under the federal "Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector and free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. This measure forces taxpayers to enrich woke corporations such as Comcast for infrastructure which may soon be unnecessary due to significant advances in satellite technology from Comcast's competitors, such as Elon Musk's Starlink.

This bill establishes a tax credit for demolition or repair of vacant or derelict properties. Under the bill, localities may designate properties as abandoned or nuisances if the property has been vacant for at least 6 months or "neglected and contains a significantly deteriorated or deteriorating structure." Localities may designate between 3-10 properties at a time, depending on population. If the owner of the property demolishes the building within 2 years, they are eligible for a tax credit of up to 50% of the expense, or up to 100% of the expense if the building is brought "into substantial compliance with applicable codes." If another person purchases such a property and demolishes or repairs it within 5 years, they are eligible for a tax credit of up to 100% of the expenses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill incentivizes poor property maintenance and socializes the costs onto taxpayers. Instead of growing government central planning, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.

Growing Government Central Planning and Forcing Taxpayers to Subsidize Demolition or Repair of Blighted Properties Through Tax Credits for Expenses.

This bill requires social media companies to obtain authorization from a parent or guardian before allowing an individual under age 18 from opening an account. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while the intent of this bill is noble, it is the role of parents - not politicians - to oversee their children's social media usage. This bill expands the nanny state by imposing new regulations on private companies.

Expanding Government Overreach by Imposing New Mandates on Social Media Companies Concerning Parental Authorization for Account Openings by Individuals Under Age 18.

This bill requires a school district to submit a statement explaining why it did not adopt rules allowing employees with a concealed carry permit to carry a firearm on school property. Under existing state law, school districts may, but are not required to, adopt such rules. The bill also appropriates $100,000 "to promote school districts' authority to allow possession of firearms by school district employees." Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure encourages school districts to strengthen school security by improving the ability of teachers and other employees to protect students and themselves.

Strengthening School Safety by Requiring School Districts to Explain the Reasons for Not Adopting Rules Allowing Employees to Conceal Carry on School Property.

This bill repeals the 3-year excise tax exemption for electricity produced by wind turbines. Projects that produced electricity prior to the bill may continue to receive the tax exemption. Support is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.

Repealing the Crony Tax Exemption Provided to Government-Favored Wind Energy Projects.

This bill increases the award amount for merit and need based Hathaway scholarships by approximately 5%. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e., tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades.

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Increasing Hathaway Scholarship Award Amounts.

This bill would allow online casinos to operate in the state. The bill imposes a 10% tax on revenue, with the first $300,000 each fiscal year allocated to "county health programs to prevent and treat problematic gambling behavior." Support is the Limited Government Position as individuals - not bureaucrats - should have decision rights over how to utilize the fruits of their labor - even when it comes to risky endeavors such as betting. This measure also helps eliminate the financial fraud and other significant societal harm that the current black market in gambling presents, while allowing the state to generate additional revenue.

Strengthening Individual Liberties and Growing the Tax Base by Allowing Online Casinos to Operate in the State.

This bill establishes "federal review" standing committees in both chambers of the state legislature to review federal actions to ensure the sovereignty of the state and the "powers, rights and liberties of its citizens" are not being "infringed upon or diminished." This includes federal laws, regulations, executive orders, and any other federal actions with the force of law. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides a crucial safeguard to ensure states' rights and individual liberties are not violated through unconstitutional federal actions. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, and ensuring protections against federal overreach is vital to protecting individual liberties under the U.S. Constitution.

Combatting Federal Overreach Through the Establishment of "Federal Review" Committees to Ensure Federal Actions Don't Violate State Sovereignty or Individual Liberties.

This bill appropriates $2.035 million to the Wyoming Public Television matching funds account and $1.905 million to the State Fair endowment account (or enough to bring the balance of each fund to $5 million, whichever is less). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as public television and state fairs are not core nor necessary functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending by Appropriating Up to $3.94 Million for Public Television and the State Fair.

This bill, the Wyoming Voluntary Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act, establishes a state-run paid family and medical leave program that provides 60% pay for up to 12 weeks every 12 months. This can be used for events such as the birth or adoption of a child or a serious health condition. The program is implemented in three phases. By March 1, 2025, all state employees will be eligible for the program. By March 1, 2026, private employers with at least 2 employees can offer paid leave to their employees through the program. By March 1, 2027, all private employees whose employers do not offer paid leave will be eligible for the program "through an individual purchasing pool." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to offer and manage paid leave programs.

Expanding the Size and Role of Government Through a New State-Run Paid Leave Program.

This bill expands the Wyoming Teacher Shortage Loan Repayment Program, which authorizes the Wyoming Community College Commission to cover up to the cost of attendance for individuals enrolled in certain teaching programs at the University of Wyoming, through a loan that doesn't need to be repaid if the recipient teaches in the state after graduation and meets certain requirements. Under the bill, the program is expanded to include all teacher certifications (previously only special education, math, science, or world language certifications), or teaching endorsements (previously only reading or English as a second language). Students receiving a loan based on teacher certification must be at least a junior. The bill also eliminates the requirement that loan recipients teach at least 50% of the time in the above subject areas after graduation. Finally, the bill appropriates $2 million for the program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to determine the need and distribution of teachers across the state. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

ILA

Kevin O'Hearn