Wyoming2022Did Not Pass

HB0139

Protecting Wyoming's Land and Water Resources

Last scannedAug 25, 2026, 2:25 AM

In one sentence

This act aims to protect Wyoming's land and water resources from federal conservation efforts by limiting state agencies' involvement in such initiatives.

What it does

States that Wyoming values conserving its natural resources while supporting multiple uses of the land, private property rights, and traditional industries like agriculture and mining.
Requires state agencies to resist federal attempts to implement a goal of conserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.
Creates workshops for county officials to understand tax consequences related to conservation easements.
Maintains lists on the Wyoming Department of Agriculture's website showing local support or opposition to federal conservation goals.
Limits state agencies from using public funds or staff resources for projects involving perpetual conservation easements, except under specific conditions.

Who it affects

State and local government entities in Wyoming
County commissioners, assessors, and treasurers

Limits and unknowns

The bill did not pass in the session it was introduced.
It does not specify how state agencies will resist federal conservation efforts beyond creating workshops and maintaining lists of local resolutions.

Plain language

Terms to know

Conservation Easement: A legal agreement that limits the use of land to protect its conservation values.
Perpetual Conservation Easements: Easements that last forever and cannot be changed or removed without permission from a court.

Official record

Sources

Validated

Official bill page Introduced text Official digest Current bill text Stored full record

Public statements

Why lawmakers voted

Last checked Aug 5, 2:01 PM

Pepper Ottman

R · H34

Voted Yes

Why they voted this way

The lawmaker argues that a federal conservation goal would interfere with state constitutional powers and devastate the economy by taking over land uses.

Public statementFloor statement at 51:19 Watch the statement

Mark S Kinner

H29

Voted No

Why they voted this way

The lawmaker opposes the bill because it prohibits state agencies from holding conservation easements, which are necessary to preserve family ranches and prevent out-of-state ownership.

Public statementFloor statement at 51:40 Watch the statement

If a lawmaker is not listed, we couldn't find a published reason.

Wyoming roll calls

Recorded votes

1 roll call

H Failed Introduction 30-30-0-0-02022-02-18 · House30 yes 30 no

Yes: 30
No: 30
Absent: 0
Excused: 0
Conflict: 0

Official activity

Bill history

2022-02-18H Failed Introduction 30-30-0-0-0House
2022-02-16H Received for IntroductionHouse
2022-02-15Bill Number AssignedLSO