Christopher Knapp
R · H53
Why they voted this way
The speaker supports the motion because the added language was originally intended by the bill's sponsor and improves the legislation.
Sex Offenders Can't Hold Public Office
In one sentence
Plain language
Official record
Bill Summary - 26LSO-0260 Bill No.: HB0092 Effective: 7/1/2026 LSO No.: 26LSO-0260 Enrolled Act No.: HEA No. 0037 Chapter No.: 96 Prime Sponsor: Lucas Catch Title: Registered sex offenders prohibited from public office. Has Report: No Subject: Registered sex offenders prohibited from specified public offices. Summary/Major Elements: This bill establishes qualifications for specified public offices, specifically disqualifying individuals registered as sex offenders from holding these positions. The bill defines "sex offender" as a person currently registered on the central registry of offenders under W.S. 7-19-301 through 7-19-310. Specifies that election officials must refuse to certify ineligible candidates, and offices held by disqualified individuals will be deemed vacant. Applies to individuals elected or appointed to public office on or after July 1, 2026. The above summary is not an official publication of the Wyoming Legislature and is not an official statement of legislative intent. While the Legislative Service Office endeavored to provide accurate information in this summary, it should not be relied upon as a comprehensive abstract of the bill.
Public statements
Last checked Aug 6, 12:53 AM
R · H53
Why they voted this way
The speaker supports the motion because the added language was originally intended by the bill's sponsor and improves the legislation.
R · H36
Why they voted this way
The speaker urges a favorable vote because the central issue of firearms rights restoration was left untouched by the amendments, which only clarified respect for restored rights from other states.
R · S25
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker opposes the bill because it permanently disqualifies individuals from public office even after they have served their sentence and become upstanding citizens, arguing that redemption should be possible.
D · S09
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker opposes the bill because it eliminates the possibility for individuals to run for office after having their rights restored, arguing that sex offender registries do not effectively reduce recidivism.
R · S06
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker supports the bill because existing laws failed to prevent an individual with a conviction for sexual exploitation of a minor from running for a school position, requiring public pressure instead.
R · S08
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker supports the bill as a measure targeting heinous offenders who should not hold offices of public trust involving children, while noting that less severe offenders have pathways to redemption.
R · S22
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker opposes the bill because it has unintended consequences for those on lifetime registries who are already prohibited from office, suggesting a simpler fix to existing statutes instead.
R · S20
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker opposes the bill because it is too broad and includes individuals who were convicted of crimes that are no longer considered valid offenses, such as being a black man in Mississippi decades ago.
R · H43
Why they voted this way
The lawmaker cites a recent incident where a registered sex offender ran for a community college board despite current law not clearly preventing it, arguing the bill establishes clear standards to protect children and others from sexual assault in positions of trust.
If a lawmaker is not listed, we couldn't find a published reason.
Wyoming roll calls
6 roll calls
Official activity
Changes
3 stored
Adopted Standing Committee by House Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee
Adopted 2nd reading by Senator Case
Adopted Standing Committee by Senate Judiciary Committee