Representative Andrew Byron, R-Jackson, before the opening of the 68th Wyoming Legislature January 14, 2025 in the House Chambers. Photo by Michael Smith

• Byron highlights wildlife management, wildfire funding, and tax relief

Representative Andrew Byron (R-HD22) made an appearance on the Weekday Wake-Up show on Thursday, January 9, to discuss the Wyoming Legislative Session, which began this week in Cheyenne. Byron represents House District 22, encompassing Northern Star Valley and Southern Teton County.

As the chair of the Travel, Recreation, Wildlife, and Cultural Resources (TRW) Committee, Byron has been busy getting acquainted with new committee members and the Wyoming Fish and Game Director, Dr. Anji Bruce. He highlighted the significant impact of the travel and recreation industry, which ranks as the second-largest sector in the state.

Byron announced that the TRW committee passed four bills that are going to come through the House. A number of the bills focus on pressing wildlife issues, including the management of wolves and the preservation of mule deer populations. He also addressed financial concerns related to wildland firefighting efforts. “Our funds have been depleted greatly due to the fires in Sheridan and elsewhere,” he said, emphasizing the need for enhanced support for first responders. “In Western Wyoming, we have many burnable acres, and rebuilding that fund is a top priority.”

The upcoming session will also tackle significant tax legislation. Byron noted that as of January 1, 2025, residents over 65 who have paid state taxes for 25 years will be eligible for a 50% tax reduction. Additionally, a bill proposing a 25% relief on property value will be revisited after being vetoed by the governor last year. “I see that bill coming back very quickly, and I will be supportive of it,” Byron stated.

As the legislative session begins this week, Byron remains focused on addressing both community concerns and state-wide issues.