Representatives of the Uniform Law Commission told the Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions interim committee that model acts are heavily vetted and designed to promote consistent commercial rules across states, and they offered technical assistance after lawmakers raised questions about a proposed change to the Uniform Commercial Code.

The commission representatives said states sometimes adapt uniform acts to local needs, and that the commission can bring subject-matter experts to explain the purpose and likely effects of proposed amendments.

Scott Meyer, a Wyoming Uniform Law Commission commissioner, said the commission studies and drafts proposed uniform statutes through multi-year review and broad input, then submits final drafts for state consideration. “The one that is pretty universal is probably the uniform commercial code because every state has adopted it,” Meyer said, explaining that commercial certainty drives widespread adoption of UCC provisions.

Allison Gee, a Wyoming commissioner and attorney, urged the committee to seek the commission’s input early when proposals would alter uniform laws. She described the commission’s multi-step process: study committees, drafting committees and full-commission review with invited stakeholders. She said the commission can bring experts to hearings and cautioned that changes to uniform acts can have cross-border commerce impacts.

The committee discussed Senate File 189, a recent measure that drew attention during the session for changes tied to Article 8 (securities intermediaries). The committee asked the Uniform Law Commission to provide written materials and technical comments on SF 189 and agreed to solicit sponsor and stakeholder briefs before deciding whether to put the topic on a future agenda.

No formal legislative action was taken on uniform laws at the hearing; the committee requested written materials and expert briefings to inform any possible follow-up work.