Committee rejects bill that would require schools to provide access to certain youth 'patriotic' organizations

Senate File 90, a bill to require Wyoming school districts to provide access for youth organizations identified under Title 36 of the U.S. Code, failed to pass the Education Committee after a tied 4‑4 vote with one member excused. The sponsor, Senator Crum, said the bill is intended to give students information about after‑school civic and service options and clarified the bill does not force schools to give equal access to organizations that are not designated as Title 36 patriotic organizations.

Sponsor testimony said listed groups — including 4‑H, FFA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts (Scouting America) and others — would be permitted to present at school events or open houses at the school's discretion. Senator Crum told the committee the bill "allows, for our kids to have a choice to do positive things" and that the legislation aims to keep the access optional for schools while providing opportunities for students to connect with civic organizations.

Opponents questioned the need for statewide legislation and raised concerns about local control and evolving organizational policies. Patricia McCoy, chapter chair of Moms for Liberty of Laramie County, testified in opposition to SF90 on constitutional and local‑control grounds, arguing the bill "is a perfect example of the government trying to fix something that isn't broken while potentially breaking things that don't need to be fixed." Other witnesses raised concerns about organizational changes and past misconduct; Dawn Marquardt cited Scouting America's recent national settlement related to abuse claims and said some parents remain uncomfortable with guaranteed access to that organization.

Sponsor and other supporters said the bill does not require schools to schedule presentations during instructional time and leaves the timing and manner of access to local schools. Senator Crum emphasized that the bill does not compel schools to provide equal access to non‑Title 36 groups and that it was drafted to let communities decide local participation.

The committee motion failed on the roll call. Votes recorded in committee: Representative Bratton — No; Representative Guggenmoss — No; Representative Kelly — No; Representative Lawley — Aye (absentee vote recorded); Representative Singh — Aye; Representative Strauch — No; Representative Williams — Aye; Chairman Andrew — Aye. The committee therefore did not advance SF90.