Committee advances bill to fund wildfire hazard pay and paid leave tied to federal standards; members ask for alternate language

House Bill 35, proposing appropriations to fund paid leave and hazard differential pay for wildland firefighters, advanced from committee after testimony from the State Forester and operational staff.

Wyoming State Forester Kelly Norris told the committee the appropriation would fund paid leave in accordance with federal standards and provide a hazard‑pay differential for firefighters working in hazardous conditions. "This bill impacts is this appropriation will fund wildland firefighters paid leave consistent with federal standards for wildland firefighters," Norris said.

Committee members probed operational details. A representative asked whether the department can track when employees are entitled to hazard pay; Norris replied that time‑sheets, supervisor sign‑offs and fiscal approvals are standard practice and make hazard pay auditable. Jared Delay, assistant state forester and former federal firefighter, said the federal standard shifted recently (from two to three days after a 14‑day assignment) and described historical practice.

Several legislators expressed concern about tying state budget obligations automatically to federal standard changes. One member said, "I really don't like the federal government determining what kind of changes we're gonna make in our budget," and asked staff to prepare alternate language that keeps the program competitive but preserves the legislature's budget control. Representative Harrelson asked LSO for a memo with amendment language to retain flexibility.

Supporters from the Wyoming fire service testified in favor, saying hazard pay and paid leave promote recruitment, retention and safety. The committee voted to advance HB35 by roll call (7 ayes). Representative Smith will carry the bill to the House floor.