Environment

HB 90 requires Wyoming's state engineer to study how large-scale industrial water use permanently removes water from the natural water cycle (like data centers, carbon capture, and hydrogen production), excluding normal evaporation from irrigation. The study must analyze current impacts on all water users - including agriculture, municipalities, and recreation - and recommend ways to limit future impacts. It mandates a report to the legislature by November 2026, funded by a $500,000 appropriation specifically for this study. This bill does not change water rules but creates a formal process to assess emerging industrial water demands.

HB 66 changes how Wyoming courts review state agency decisions. It requires courts to interpret statutes and regulations without giving extra weight to agency interpretations (de novo review), and to favor interpretations that limit agency power and protect individual rights. This affects courts, state agencies (like environmental or business regulators), and people challenging agency actions. The law applies to judicial review cases filed after July 1, 2026.