Task force would review Wyoming Business Council programs

A task force would review the Wyoming Business Council and recommend possible changes. The task force would include state lawmakers, a council board member, business and industry representatives, local economic development representatives, and elected local officials. The task force may ask state agencies and other entities for help, and they must provide the requested help. The task force must report its findings and recommendations by October 1, 2026, and would end on December 31, 2026.

The council would be barred from expanding its programs or taking on new work during a temporary period. The restriction would apply to the Wyoming Business Council and its programs, duties, and functions. The restriction would not apply when another law requires the council to act. The restriction would begin when the act takes effect and last through June 30, 2027.

The council would report financial, property, program, and investment information to state officials. The report would cover grants and financial aid not yet disbursed, outstanding loans and bonds, certain agreements, property, programs, funds, and program investment returns. The report would go to the joint legislative committee, the governor, the state budget department, and the Wyoming Energy Authority. The report would be due by April 30, 2026, and cover specified loans, bonds, grants, and property as of that date.

The bill would set aside state money for task force expenses and expert help. The bill would set aside $20,000 for legislative members' pay and travel, $40,000 for nonlegislative members' travel, and $75,000 for expert or consulting services. The money could be used only for the stated task force and review purposes; unused funds would return to the state treasury. The appropriations would run from the act's effective date through June 30, 2028.