Wyoming House Bill HB0260

Wyoming 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/25
• Failed: 3/3/25

Caption

Criminal accountability grant program.

Impact

This bill is expected to amend existing state laws related to the funding and support of law enforcement, as it specifically allows for financial assistance based on the demonstrated increase in crime rates and related expenses. The categorical nature of the grants—based on defined factors such as violent crimes, fentanyl-related cases, and the prosecution of nonresident offenders—suggests a targeted approach to addressing criminal issues prevalent in particular regions of the state. This financial support can be crucial for smaller communities that struggle with financial burdens related to rising crime as they often lack the resources of larger urban areas.

Summary

House Bill 0260 establishes a Criminal Accountability Grant Program aimed at aiding cities and towns in Wyoming that face rising costs associated with criminal activities. Funded by an appropriation of five million dollars from the general fund, the program is intended to offset specified costs incurred due to increases in crime and the corresponding expenditure on law enforcement resources. The Wyoming Attorney General is tasked with overseeing the program, which includes developing an application process and criteria for grant eligibility based on specific metrics of criminal activity within municipalities.

Contention

Opponents may raise concerns about the distribution and effectiveness of grants provided under this program. As grants will be limited to a maximum of ten cities or towns each fiscal year, competition for funding could intensify among municipalities, potentially leaving some regions without critical assistance. Additionally, concerns about accountability and the criteria used to assess grant applications may arise, especially regarding how the necessary data will be collected and utilized in state reports. Another notable point of contention is ensuring that the implementation of this bill does not lead to increased dependency on state funding for local law enforcement, which could impact future budgeting processes.

Implementation

The bill mandates that cities and towns receiving grants cooperate with the attorney general's office, providing information and reports regarding the appropriation and its impact. The attorney general is also instructed to submit annual reports to the joint judiciary interim committee and the governor detailing grant applications and the corresponding use of funds. Furthermore, the law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, marking the beginning of this new initiative aimed at bolstering the financial capabilities of local law enforcement agencies.