Ahead of Legislative Session, House and Senate Republicans Consider In-Person Meetings, Safety Measures

NEWS RELEASE
Majority of the Wyoming Legislature
 
January 11, 2021
Contact: House Speaker-Elect Eric Barlow
Eric.barlow@wyoleg.gov
 

Ahead of Legislative Session, House and Senate Republicans Consider In-Person Meetings, Safety Measures

Republican Leadership Identifies Options for In-Person and Virtual Participation

Cheyenne, Wyoming — As the Wyoming Legislature prepares to commence the 66^th Legislative Session on Tuesday, January 12, Republican leaders have put forth plans to safely, efficiently and transparently conduct business on behalf of Wyoming residents.

 

“The continued fallout from the Coronavirus pandemic presents unique challenges during the upcoming session,” said House Speaker-elect Eric Barlow. “Our priorities are to serve the people of Wyoming effectively and ensure the health and safety of all personnel, legislators and the public. We can do both.”

 

The Legislature will convene for a one-day virtual meeting on January 12 to fulfill its duties under the Wyoming Constitution, including the election of leadership and adoption of rules. Governor Mark Gordon will provide a message at 2:00 pm.

 

The Legislature will continue its work the following week with virtual Standing Committee meetings, followed by a short virtual session beginning on January 27 to consider the worked committee bills. The session will continue in March with every effort being made to conduct business in-person. A copy of the current full 2021 General Session schedule is available here.

 

“The proposed legislative session schedule includes 34 working days, which closely aligns with past General Sessions,” said Senate President Dan Dockstader. “Our time will be well used to thoroughly consider the important legislation and other matters that come before the Legislature.”

 

“It’s been exceptionally difficult to try and find an acceptable way to meet, but we have a good plan in place now,” added Majority Floor Leader Ogden Driskill.

 

“We are a citizen legislature committed to serving the people of Wyoming,” said House Speaker Pro Tempore Mike Greear. “We continue to draw on examples from other state legislatures and best practices to protect everyone involved in the legislative process, and we encourage residents to work with us to make this a productive General Session. Together we can advance the interests of Wyoming and tackle the tough issues facing our hard-working men, women and families.”   

 

All House and Senate meetings are open to the public with appropriate safety measures in place. Additionally, proceedings will be livestreamed on the Legislature’s website: www.wyoleg.gov.

 

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