AN ACT relating to lobbying; prohibiting the use of state funds and resources for lobbying; requiring certifications; providing for enforcement; and providing for an effective date.
Summary
HB0088 would prohibit state and local governmental entities in Wyoming from using public funds or government resources to lobby the Legislature. The bill defines lobbying broadly as attempting to influence legislation and bars governmental entities from paying for in-house lobbying, hiring registered lobbyists, or paying dues or other remuneration to associations that primarily represent governmental entities if those groups lobby or hire lobbyists to lobby on their behalf.
The bill also requires each governmental entity to file an annual certification with the Wyoming Attorney General stating that it complied with these restrictions during the prior calendar year. If a governmental entity fails to comply, it could lose access to state funds or resources until it meets the certification requirement. Enforcement authority would rest with the Attorney General or the relevant district attorney, who could seek injunctive relief and take other legal action. The bill additionally gives any Wyoming taxpayer or resident standing to sue for injunctive relief and recover court costs and reasonable attorney fees if they prevail.
Impact
HB0088 would add a new statutory section to Wyoming law governing lobbying by public entities, creating a statewide prohibition on the use of public funds and resources for lobbying activities by state and local government units, school districts, and special districts. It would also affect associations and organizations that primarily represent governmental entities by restricting public payments to those groups when they lobby or employ lobbyists. The bill would impose annual compliance certification duties and create new enforcement and private-right-of-action mechanisms, potentially changing how public entities budget for advocacy, membership dues, and legislative outreach.
Sentiment
The bill did not advance, failing introduction in the House by a vote of 27-34-1-0-0 on February 10, 2026. That vote suggests there was meaningful support, but not enough to move the measure forward. With no committee transcripts available, the available record shows the bill was controversial enough to divide the chamber, with a majority opposing introduction.
Contention
The main point of contention is whether public entities should be allowed to spend taxpayer funds on lobbying or on memberships in organizations that lobby the Legislature. Supporters likely viewed the bill as a taxpayer-protection and anti-lobbying measure, while opponents likely objected that it would limit local governments, school districts, and related associations from advocating on issues affecting their operations. The private enforcement provision, which allows any taxpayer or resident to sue and recover fees, may also have been a concern because it could invite litigation and broaden enforcement beyond state officials.