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Wyoming House passes library restriction bill after heated floor debate
Summary
The Wyoming House approved House Bill 10, a measure restricting certain materials in children's sections of libraries, after extended floor debate and an unsuccessful delete amendment from Representative Jarvis. The final vote was 48 Aye, 13 No, 1 Excused.
The Wyoming House passed House Bill 10 on third reading on Feb. 20, 2026, advancing a package of restrictions on "explicit" materials in public libraries' children's sections. The motion to pass the bill carried on a recorded vote of 48 Aye, 13 No and 1 excused.
Representative Jarvis, who moved a third-reading amendment that would have deleted the bill, said the measure ‘‘only addresses the physical books’’ and does not control online materials. ‘‘I, Representative Jarvis, am a book banner,’’ he told colleagues as he urged members to oppose the underlying bill and highlighted what he called the bill's shortcomings.
Jarvis argued the bill's definitions and structure would leave parents, libraries and schools at odds because the statute does not regulate nationally distributed online books, which parents could access even if a physical book were moved to an adult section. Several members questioned whether the bill's language would invite litigation or create enforcement gaps.
Despite those concerns and Jarvis' request to withdraw, the amendment was withdrawn and the House proceeded to final passage. The clerk recorded the final tally and the Speaker declared House Bill 10 passed the House.
The bill will now await further action in the legislative process following passage in the House chamber.
The session recessed for lunch and committee meetings; floor action on other bills continued after the break.
