Management Council reauthorizes select committee on gaming, citing need for focused oversight

The Management Council voted to re‑authorize the Select Committee on Gaming for one year, following more than 20 minutes of discussion about where gaming oversight belongs in the legislative structure.

Senator Kolb urged the renewal and funding request, saying the select committee produced four bills that were signed into law this session and arguing the gaming industry — which he described as a multibillion‑dollar sector in Wyoming — requires sustained, focused oversight. Others on the floor and in the chamber questioned whether responsibility should shift to an existing standing committee, but supporters said past efforts without a dedicated body had not succeeded.

After members asked procedural questions about drafting authority and whether the select committee could sponsor legislation directly, the council moved, seconded and carried a motion to continue the select committee under the same structure as the prior year. The chair noted the makeup would remain three members from each body appointed by presiding officers.

What happens next: LSO will process appointments and the select committee will convene during the interim. Management Council instructions noted the select committee historically takes its legislation to Management Council for sponsorship, though it may work with other committees as needed.

Provenance: proposal and discussion began SEG 371 and the motion and voice vote concluded at SEG 741–751.