Bill > SF0014

This bill establishes the Wyoming Imagination Library Program, administered by the state Department of Education, with the goal of promoting early literacy and a love of reading for children from birth to five years old. The program will partner with a nonprofit organization to provide free, age-appropriate books monthly to registered children in participating counties. Each county-based affiliate program is required to contribute 50% of the program's local costs, which will be matched by state funds from a newly created Wyoming Imagination Library Program Account. The account will be funded through legislative appropriations, grants, gifts, and donations, with an initial appropriation of $320,000 from the general fund. The program will develop county-based affiliates, conduct public awareness campaigns, and work to increase child enrollment. Participating counties will need to establish local affiliates, and the Department of Education will be responsible for managing funds, collecting books, and promulgating rules to implement the program. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, with the intent that future funding will be included in the department's standard budget for subsequent fiscal periods.

Budget and Finance, Education

Education (Joint)

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/SF0014