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Representative Andrew Byron Stands Up for Property Rights and Local Funding

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 24th, 2025


Representative Andrew Byron Stands Up for Property Rights and Local Funding

Cheyenne, WY – Representative Andrew Byron (HD-22) is standing firm against two bills pushed by Freedom Caucus members that threaten private property rights and vital funding for local services, including public education. “These bills don’t represent the people of Wyoming,” says Representative Byron. “We stand for private property rights and we support our students, teachers, and first responders. I will oppose any measure that undermines these core values.”

HB 118: Limitations on net land gains for the federal government.

HB 118, introduced by members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, seeks to limit private property owners' ability to sell land to the state or federal government. Representative Byron strongly opposes the bill, arguing that it infringes on fundamental property rights.

HB 118 is a direct assault on private property rights,” says Representative Byron. “It restricts Wyoming landowners from selling their property to neighbors AND federal partners. This bill was rushed through the legislature, disregarding the rights of property owners in favor of political agendas. Unless it’s amended to properly protect the rights of landowners, I will not support it.”

In committee, Rep. Byron and others proposed amendments to safeguard property owners’ right to sell to anyone they choose. However, members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus voted down these changes, and the bill passed out of committee. Now heading to the Senate, Byron is pushing for amendments to protect Wyoming’s landowners from the bill’s overreach.

HB 169: Homeowner tax exemption - 2025 and 2026

HB 169 could harm local services and schools by reducing property tax revenue, which is crucial for funding public safety, infrastructure, and education. Representative Byron warns that the bill could create budget gaps, forcing local governments to cut services or raise taxes on residents.

While tax reform is important for Wyoming, Byron is concerned that passing more policies without securing funding for schools and local services could lead to closures or deep cuts. Over the last two years, he and his colleagues have worked to provide property tax relief while maintaining essential services. However, HB 169, being put forward by the Freedom Caucus, could undo that progress and threaten the stability of local communities.

“The House and Senate are still working on tax reform, which is important for District 22 and Wyoming. However, I’m hesitant to pass more policies without knowing how they’ll impact the property tax reforms I’ve worked on for the past two years. Without proper funding, many schools and local services could be forced to shut down.”

Wildlife & Fisheries Protections

Representative Andrew Byron is sponsoring three critical bills that reflect his deep commitment to Wyoming’s values—HB 275 to protect animals, including wildlife, from abuse, and HB 0204 and HB 005 to safeguard Wyoming’s fisheries and the industries that depend on them. For Byron, these issues are personal, tied to both his love for the land and his desire to preserve the state’s way of life.

“As a Wyoming native, I’ve spent my life on the rivers and in the wilderness, seeing firsthand how our land and wildlife define us,” says Representative Byron. “Protecting our wildlife and fisheries isn’t just about laws; it’s about honoring our values—respect for nature, responsibility to future generations, and a commitment to preserving the very essence of what makes Wyoming special. When I saw the wolf tortured last spring, it hit close to home. We can’t stand by while our wildlife suffers, and we can’t risk losing the very resources that support our local communities and businesses. As a fishing guide and outfitter myself, I understand how the guiding industry affects our rivers. And as a parent, I am proud to promote bills that reflect the Wyoming we want to leave behind—a place where our children can hunt, fish, and respect the land the way we’ve always done.”

Constituent Engagement

Representative Byron encourages his constituents to stay informed, engaged, and in touch, as these legislative bills continue to move forward. He remains dedicated to advocating for policies that will promote responsible governance and a thriving Wyoming for future generations.

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