Bill > SF0174

This bill addresses legislative apportionment in Wyoming by proposing a comprehensive review and potential reform of how state legislators are distributed across counties. The bill begins by acknowledging that since 1992, the Wyoming Legislature has deviated from constitutional requirements that each county have at least one representative and one senator, and that legislative districts should follow county lines. It cites constitutional provisions, including Article 3, Sections 3 and 48 of the Wyoming Constitution, which mandate reapportionment after each federal census and require legislative districts to be allocated among counties based on population. The bill requires the Legislature's Management Council to assign a committee to study apportionment during the 2025 legislative interim, with the committee conducting public meetings across Wyoming to gather input on potential apportionment options. The committee is mandated to report its findings by December 1, 2025, and may introduce legislation to constitutionally realign legislative districts during the 2026 budget session. The bill emphasizes the need to balance two key constitutional requirements: ensuring equal voting weight for citizens (as required by the 14th Amendment) and maintaining county-based representation. Ultimately, the legislation aims to bring Wyoming's legislative district structure into closer alignment with both state and federal constitutional principles.

Government Affairs

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/SF0174