Wyoming lawmakers discuss corner crossing case and potential legislative changes

On June 6, 2025, the Wyoming Legislature's Joint Travel, Recreation, Wildlife & Cultural Resources Committee convened to address pressing issues surrounding landowner rights and public access, particularly focusing on the contentious topic of corner crossing. This meeting highlighted the complexities of trespass laws in Wyoming and the implications of recent court rulings on public access to land.

The committee began by acknowledging the ongoing discussions regarding landowner situations, emphasizing the need for careful consideration as they navigate these complicated issues. The chairman expressed gratitude to committee members for their dedication and suggested that further discussions may be necessary as the situation evolves.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update on corner crossing, a practice where individuals cross from one public land parcel to another by briefly touching the corners of adjacent private properties. Mr. Fuller provided a detailed overview of the legal framework surrounding trespass laws in Wyoming, noting that recent court decisions have indicated a shift towards decriminalizing corner crossing under certain conditions. Specifically, the Tenth Circuit Court ruled that as long as hunters do not physically touch private land while corner crossing, they are not committing trespass, a decision that has sparked considerable debate among landowners and public access advocates.

The committee heard from various stakeholders, including law enforcement officials and representatives from hunting organizations, who expressed the need for clearer guidelines to help enforce these laws effectively. Sheriff Alex Bakken of Carbon County emphasized the importance of clarity in the law, particularly as new deputies may not be familiar with the nuances of corner crossing. He noted that while current deputies are well-versed in the issue, ongoing education will be crucial as the situation develops.

Public comments further illustrated the divide on this issue. Some speakers argued that corner crossing should be explicitly codified as legal to prevent confusion and ensure public access to adjacent lands. Others cautioned against making legislative changes until the federal judicial process is fully resolved, highlighting the potential for conflicting laws and the need for a unified approach.

The committee concluded the meeting by discussing the possibility of drafting a bill to clarify the legality of corner crossing. Representative Provenza proposed a motion to initiate this process, which sparked further debate among committee members regarding the appropriateness of legislative action at this stage.

As the meeting wrapped up, it was clear that the discussions surrounding corner crossing and land access in Wyoming are far from settled. The committee's next steps will be critical in shaping the future of public access to land and the rights of landowners in the state. With ongoing legal challenges and the potential for further court rulings, the implications of these discussions will resonate throughout Wyoming's communities and beyond.