Wyoming 2026 Regular Session

Wyoming Senate Bill SF0124

Introduced

2/13/26

Report Pass

2/17/26

Engrossed

2/20/26

Refer

2/23/26

Report Pass

2/24/26

Refer

2/24/26

Caption

AN ACT relating to tourism; providing an appropriation; specifying distribution and requirements for the appropriation; requiring reporting; and providing for an effective date.

Impact

The act has the potential to reshape aspects of state laws by facilitating fiscal investments that prioritize tourism development. The structured funding approach, which entails a matching funds requirement from non-state sources, is intended to ensure that the financed projects not only receive governmental support but also encourage private investment. Additionally, the involvement of the Wyoming tourism board in project approvals and evaluations ensures accountability and aligns project goals with state economic objectives. A yearly reporting requirement to the joint appropriations committee further enhances transparency.

Summary

Senate File 0124, titled 'Economic development-rodeo museum,' is designed to promote tourism and preserve the cowboy heritage of Wyoming through a significant appropriation. The bill allocates fifteen million dollars from the Wyoming tourism reserve to support the development of a rodeo and cowboy museum, serving as a landmark that highlights the state's rich western history. This funding mechanism establishes a financial foundation to bolster tourism activities, aiming to create jobs and enhance economic diversification in the region. The duration of the appropriation is set to last until June 30, 2036, with specific distribution timelines outlined within the bill.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF0124 appears generally positive among legislators who view the funding for the rodeo museum as an opportunity for economic growth and cultural preservation. However, there may be underlying concerns about the efficiency and impact of such large allocations on the community, particularly regarding how effectively these funds can be managed and whether they will yield the intended benefits. Overall, the discussion reflects a commitment to promoting Wyoming’s tourism industry while honoring its heritage.

Contention

Although the bill has garnered substantial support, discussions reveal potential points of contention related to prioritization of funding and the long-term sustainability of such projects. Critics might question whether investments in cultural institutions like the rodeo museum will provide sufficient returns compared to other pressing needs within the state budget. Furthermore, the reliance on matching funds might pose a hurdle for certain projects that need immediate support. Addressing these critiques will be crucial as the state looks to implement the provisions of SF0124 effectively.

Latest WY SF0124 Activity

View All Events: WY 2026 Regular Session SF0124

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WY SF0034

K-12 school facilities maintenance and appropriations.

WY HB0259

Supplemental K-12 school facilities appropriations-2.

WY HB0001

General government appropriations-2.

WY HB0142

Supplemental K-12 school facilities appropriations.

WY SF0001

General government appropriations.

WY HB0292

Budget reserves-recommended appropriation amount.

WY HB0033

Vehicle sales and use tax distribution-highway fund.

WY SF0114

Missing persons-reporting requirement.

WY SF0175

Unemployment insurance coverage-period and reporting.

WY SF0060

Sales tax distribution rates.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.