Bill > HB0291

This bill establishes a mechanism for the Wyoming Secretary of State to create and maintain a "restricted financial institution list" targeting banks that allegedly discriminate against energy companies, particularly those in the fossil fuel industry. Specifically, the bill defines a "boycott of energy companies" as a financial institution discriminating against an energy company for engaging in fossil fuel-based activities or doing business with such companies, without a reasonable business purpose. The Secretary of State must prepare this list, provide written notice to financial institutions before inclusion, and update it annually. Once a financial institution is on the list, the state treasurer and state auditor are prohibited from entering into or renewing banking contracts with that institution. The bill requires the Secretary of State to consider publicly available information when determining a financial institution's status, but cannot rely solely on statements by energy companies or media reports. Financial institutions can be removed from the list if they demonstrate they have ceased boycotting energy companies. The list must include a disclaimer that inclusion does not indicate unsafe operating conditions or risk to consumer deposits. The bill becomes effective on July 1, 2025, and broadly expands the definition of "discriminate" to include actions intended to penalize or limit commercial relations with a company.

Budget and Finance

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0291