Bill > HB0265

This bill, known as the Defend the Guard Act, seeks to restrict the deployment of the Wyoming National Guard to active duty combat unless specific constitutional conditions are met. The bill argues that the U.S. Congress has improperly delegated war powers to the executive branch, contrary to the founders' original intent. It defines "active duty combat" as participation in armed conflicts, hazardous services related to armed conflicts, or war-related duties. Under the proposed law, the Wyoming National Guard cannot be released into active combat unless the U.S. Congress has either officially declared war or explicitly called forth the Guard for specific constitutional purposes like executing federal laws, repelling invasions, or suppressing insurrections. The governor is required to ensure compliance with these restrictions. However, the bill does not prevent the governor from consenting to National Guard deployments for domestic defense support missions within the United States and its territories. The legislation would amend existing state law to incorporate these new limitations on National Guard deployment and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, reflecting a state-level attempt to reassert control over military mobilization and adhere more closely to constitutional war powers.

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https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0265