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HB 58

Voter approval for mill levy imposition.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laurie Bratten and 8 co-sponsors

Wyoming bill requiring voter approval before school districts and local entities can impose or increase property tax mill levies, shifting funding decisions from boards to voters.

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Bill Summary · HB 58

Legislative bill overview

HB 58 requires voter approval before school districts or other local entities can impose or increase mill levies (property tax rates used to fund schools and local services). Currently, many Wyoming jurisdictions can establish mill levies through board action alone. This bill would mandate a direct democratic vote by affected property owners and residents before such taxes can be implemented.

Why is this important

Mill levies are a primary funding mechanism for K-12 education in Wyoming, making this bill significant for school finance and local government operations. The change would shift decision-making power from elected boards to voters, potentially affecting schools' ability to fund operations, maintenance, and expansions without voter campaigns. Communities relying on mill levies for essential services could face delays or funding uncertainty during approval processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Education funding impact: Schools argue mandatory elections could create uncertainty and delay critical infrastructure projects, while fiscal conservatives support voter control over tax increases
  • Administrative burden: Requires costly election processes for routine or emergency funding needs versus streamlined board processes currently in place
  • Equity concerns: Wealthier districts may more easily mobilize voter support for levies, potentially widening disparities with lower-income districts that struggle with approval campaigns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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