State Public Policy

LinkWYOMING will support state policy leaders in identifying options to advance both the deployment and use of broadband throughout Wyoming. For example, states can accelerate broadband deployment to fill gaps by forming public and private partnerships to pursue available federal grants and loans.

It is also often beneficial to closely examine current regulatory practices and identify reforms both at the federal and state level which could expand the business incentive and broadband deployment.

To meet the needs of citizens and businesses, states may develop appealing web-based services that expand state offerings and/or add convenience for the citizen. Also, states may provide funding, incentives, or address hindrances to encourage the private sector, non-profits or state institutions (e.g., universities) to deploy applications and content that is valuable to citizens and businesses.

These are just a few among many possible options.

Examples of innovative ideas drawn from both best practices in other states and developed through the LinkWYOMING visioning and regional team efforts will be posted here as they become available.

Top of Page

Visit the Wyoming State Legislature Website

2013 General Session

The 62nd Wyoming Legislature convened January 8 for the 2013 General Session.

Gov. Matt Mead delivered the "Wyoming State of the State Address" on Jan. 9, 2013.

[Excerpt] "Some of the very good news over the last two years is our exponential growth in broadband connectivity and in keeping and recruiting data centers and other high tech companies. We have a super computer. We have a Microsoft data center under construction. And we have small and medium-sized tech companies popping up all over our State. You just don’t have to look far to see that we have an emerging tech sector that will begin to diversify our economy and provide another option for our young people.

"One such company is Ptolemy Data Systems, which opened its 6,000 square foot data center facility in Sheridan last fall. The company is the brain child of Ryan Mulholland. Tech is taking hold in Wyoming, and it’s thanks to entrepreneurs like him. My broadband conference this past year was packed to the walls with amazing people just like Ryan."

Previous Sessions

2012 General Session

The Legislature Budget Session convened on Feb. 13, 2012.

• Gov. Matt Mead expressed his ongoing commitment and plans for broadband-related efforts in his 2012 State of the State Address, including:

  - setting an example of leadership and use of Information Technology (IT)

  - expanding the use of teleconferencing

  - continuing to look for public-private partnerships to increase access to high speed broadband for citizens everywhere

  - consolidating IT services in one agency in state government

  - increasing funding for recruitment of tech-related businesses and data centers

  - increasing opportunities for Wyoming in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education

  Read an overview and the full State of the State Address delivered by Gov. Mead on Feb. 13.

2011 General Session

The 2011 General Session convened Jan. 11 and adjourned on March 3.

Broadband-related Updates

• The Joint Minerals, Business and Economic Business Committee of the 61st Legislature released an agenda of their 2011 interim committee studies. Among the agenda items and priorities is the review and consideration of broadband utilization and optimization in Wyoming.
• The Wyoming State Legislature has amended House Bill No. 0117 (HB0117), which modifies the requirements for an exemption from taxes for computer software and data service processing centers.

2010 General Session

• Read the Legislative Session Roundup from April 6, 2010

Top of Page