County officials discuss impacts of TransWest Express project
The Carbon County Commissioners hosted a workshop with county departments Tuesday afternoon to discuss potential impacts that could result from the TransWest Express transmission line project. The governing body anticipates asking for about $1.2 million in impact assistance funds from the state. Emma Diercks was there and filed this story.
Legislature busy as session enters second half
By Jim O’Reilly
In Cheyenne, the legislature has passed the halfway mark of the session. Today is the last day of third reading of bills in their house of origin. Some legislation already has begun moving to the other body for consideration.
For instance, the Senate yesterday took up a House Bill that would repeal the death penalty in Wyoming. After being introduced on first reading, House Bill 145 was referred to the Judiciary Committee. If it becomes law, a person convicted of first degree murder would no longer face the death penalty as possible punishment. Life in prison without parole would be the maximum allowable penalty.
The legislation passed the House last week on a 36-21 vote, with three excused. The fiscal note on the bill shows that both counties and state government would save money by repealing the death penalty because of reduced funding to the public defender’s office. The Department of Corrections also notes that it currently does not have any inmates in its custody who are sentenced to death.
Meanwhile, the Senate passed one of its own pieces of legislation on third reading Tuesday. Senate File 160 tightens the reins on the ability of voters to switch party affiliation prior to a primary election.
Voting records indicate Democrats have switched parties to give moderate Republicans an edge over conservatives. Last year’s gubernatorial race is a widely cited example of how the practice can impact the general election. However, not all Republicans were in favor Senate File 160. Charles Scott of Natrona County was among those urging a no vote.
Senator Bo Biteman of Sheridan, the sponsor of the bill, said some voters are already offended. Wyoming law, Biteman said, allows people outside a political party to basically tamper with elections.
The bill would prevent voters from switching parties two weeks prior to the start of absentee voting through Primary Election Day. Senate File 160 passed on a 20-10 vote. Senator Larry Hicks of Baggs voted with the majority. The bill now moves over to the House for consideration.
County Road 701 will get dust abatement treatment
During yesterday’s meeting, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners approved a grant agreement which will allow for a special dust mitigation treatment to be applied to a roughly 18 mile stretch of County Road 701. Cali O’Hare reports.
Sports: RHS receives major accolades
More Highlights:
- Cowboy basketball prepare to face Air Force on the road.
- Cowgirl basketball looks to improve to 27 and 0 against Lady Falcons in Laramie.
- Pokes football schedule released.
- Rockies sign Nolan Arenado to one year $26 million deal.
