CASPER, Wyo. — A bill that would have established new statutory requirements for specified energy projects did not advance in the Wyoming Senate on Wednesday, failing on introduction in a 10–21 vote.
Senate File 91, “Wyoming energy project accountability act,” which was sponsored by Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, R-Lingle, and co-sponsored by Rep. Bill Allemand, R-Casper, sought to require legislative approval for specified energy projects and establish additional statutory requirements governing energy development proposals in Wyoming.
According to the bill’s text, SF91 would have created new provisions under state law requiring legislative oversight for certain energy projects, outlined definitions and exceptions, required rulemaking and specified applicability standards.
Floor debate
Supporters argued the bill would increase legislative accountability and provide additional oversight of large-scale energy developments. Opponents contended it could slow project timelines, inject uncertainty into Wyoming’s regulatory framework and potentially hinder economic activity.
“Senate File 91 is about transparency, public participation and protecting Wyoming ratepayers and taxpayers when major energy decisions reshape communities, land use and electric rates,” Steinmetz explained during her introduction to the Senate floor.
The resolution would have required legislative approval over industrial projects via a bill or resolution prior to construction of approved projects.
“This keeps Wyoming siting and permitting intact while ensuring legislative approval happens early before construction begins so that the public gets a real say and decisions are made in the open,” she added.
No senator voiced their opposition to the bill prior to the vote.
The bill’s failure at introduction means it will not advance to committee for further consideration this session.
Vote breakdown
In Natrona County, Sen. Jim Anderson, R-Casper, voted against the bill.
In Campbell County, Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette, voted against the bill.
In Fremont County, Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, voted in favor of the bill.
In Laramie County, Sen. Lynn Hutchings, R-Cheyenne, voted in favor, while Sen. Tara Nethercott, R-Cheyenne, voted against the bill.
Oil City News has reached out to those who voted for and against this bill in the Senate, as well as Allemand, for comment and will update this story if responses are received.
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