Bill > SF0179

This bill amends Wyoming's compensatory mitigation guidelines for greater sage grouse habitat by introducing several key provisions. It allows operators (such as energy or land development companies) to propose their own mitigation measures or restoration credits in areas that are ecologically equivalent to the lands being impacted, giving them more flexibility in how they address environmental disruptions. The bill specifies that operators can perform mitigation in a service area with similar properties in Wyoming and can receive credit from the board of land commissioners for these measures, while retaining responsibility for the mitigation's effectiveness throughout the period of environmental impact. Additionally, the bill explicitly prohibits the use of eminent domain for compensatory mitigation activities, ensuring that land acquisition for these purposes cannot be compulsorily obtained. The board of land commissioners is required to develop rules to implement these changes, with the bill becoming effective on July 1, 2025. These amendments aim to provide a more adaptable and operator-driven approach to managing and mitigating impacts on sage grouse habitat while maintaining environmental protection standards.

Business and Industry

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/SF0179