Transportation

HB 145 replaces multiple existing fees for electric vehicles with a single per-kilowatt-hour tax on electricity used to power them. It reduces the annual decal fee for plug-in hybrid vehicles from $200 to $100 and sets a $200 annual fee for all-electric vehicles (previously subject to overlapping taxes). The bill allows EV owners to receive refunds for electricity purchased for vehicle use and requires clear display of the new electricity-based tax. This directly affects Wyoming residents who own electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles by eliminating "triple taxation" on their vehicles and shifting the tax burden to electricity usage.

Wyoming's HB 32 requires commercial motor vehicle drivers to demonstrate English language proficiency based on federal standards. It directly affects commercial drivers operating in Wyoming who cannot prove this skill, prohibiting them from driving until they meet the requirement. The bill imposes a $1,000 fine for first-time violations and additional penalties - including up to 90 days in jail - for repeated offenses while under the operating ban. Enforcement will be handled by highway patrol and local law enforcement officers. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

HB 114 sets new safety rules for railroad operations in Wyoming. It limits train lengths to 8,500 feet or the shortest passing track/siding, requires wayside detection systems every 10 miles on main lines to identify equipment problems (like overheating parts), and mandates visual inspections and operator reporting. Railroad companies operating in Wyoming must install these systems, train staff on their use, and report detection alerts or system failures. Violations could result in civil penalties ranging from $500 per foot over length limits to $250,000 for severe safety failures causing injury. The bill directly affects all railroad companies operating trains within the state.