Transportation (Roads & Highways)

HB 82 authorizes Wyoming to use up to $250 million from the permanent mineral trust fund to provide low-interest loans for highway construction projects approved by the transportation commission, with repayment required by 2030. The bill specifically directs funds toward adding passing lanes on U.S. Highway 20 between Casper and Shoshoni after traffic studies. It requires the state auditor to transfer funds from a "strategic investments account" back to the mineral trust fund starting in 2027, capping annual transfers at $50 million or remaining loan balances. The bill also modifies how transportation funds are distributed and requires annual reports on public-purpose investments. This directly affects the Department of Transportation, mineral trust fund finances, and drivers using Highway 20.

HB 136 redirects 1% of total wagered amounts from historic pari-mutuel events and simulcasting (e.g., horse racing betting) to the state highway fund instead of distributing it to local counties or cities. This affects racetracks and pari-mutuel venues that pay these fees, changing how those funds are allocated. Previously, 1% went to local governments for the state fair account; this bill eliminates that local distribution and channels all such funds directly to highway funding. The bill failed to pass in the Wyoming House on February 11, 2026, with a vote of 17-44-1.

HB 137 increases the tax rate on net earnings from skill-based amusement games (like arcade-style games) from 20% to 25% for vendors. It redirects tax revenue distribution: 36% to local governments (county/city), 36% to public schools, 8% to the gaming commission, and 20% to the state highway fund. The bill affects businesses operating these games and changes how their taxes are allocated. It would take effect July 1, 2026, but the bill was withdrawn by its sponsor in February 2026.

SF 73 would establish a formal process for Wyoming to implement tolls on state highways. It grants the Department of Transportation authority to create a tolling program, requiring federal and state commission approval before tolls can be placed on any highway. The bill mandates reporting to a legislative committee after approvals and allows the Department to create rules for the program. This bill, which failed introduction in the legislature on February 10, 2026 (18-12), would directly affect Wyoming's highway system and transportation planning but has not become law.

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.