Bill > SF0040

This bill establishes a process for designating state lands as having "significant community value," meaning these lands possess historical, archaeological, wildlife, geological, or botanical features that might be incompatible with certain proposed uses. A board of county commissioners can apply to the Environmental Quality Council (EQC) for such a designation, and the EQC must hold a public hearing and consider public comments before approving or denying the application. If approved, the EQC will notify the Board of Land Commissioners, which is responsible for the management and disposal of state lands. The bill amends existing law to require the Board of Land Commissioners to individually consider any proposed changes in use for designated community-valued lands, giving specific attention to the EQC's findings and the community value before approving any lease, renewal, or disposition of the parcel, and preventing these proposals from being handled on a consent agenda. The bill also mandates that both the Board of Land Commissioners and the EQC create necessary rules to implement these changes, with Section 1 of the act taking effect on July 1, 2026, and other provisions becoming effective immediately upon becoming law.

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/SF0040