Bill > HB0182

This bill establishes a process for designating state lands as "state heritage sites" if they possess exceptional archeological, historical, or cultural value that could be harmed by industrial use, ensuring this designation aligns with the "greatest long-term benefit" of state land trust beneficiaries, which is defined to include protecting both the financial and intrinsic value of the land and mitigating any harm to heritage sites. The Board of Land Commissioners can initiate this designation, or nominations can be submitted by citizens, the legislature, local or tribal governments, or the state archeologist to the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, which will then make a recommendation to the Board after consulting with relevant commissions and offices. Once designated, industrial use will be prohibited on the site and on surrounding lands that could negatively impact its integrity, and leases will be considered for educational programs, sustainable tourism, or recreational activities that do not damage the site. Additionally, this bill specifically nominates the Glenrock buffalo jump for designation as a state heritage site and will take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/HB0182