Wyoming State Senator Dan Dockstader (R-Afton) joined the Weekday Wake-up on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to offer insights into various legislative matters affecting Senate District 16.

Senator Dockstader emphasized the continuous nature of legislative work, stating, “Just because you’re not in session doesn’t mean you’re not at work.” He explained his monthly commitments in Cheyenne, Casper, and other locations across the state, where he engages in legislative responsibilities. He highlighted a new initiative to establish a state office in Riverton, noting, “We’re actually looking at doing something similar in Riverton as well.”

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The Senator discussed the ongoing legislative focus on election-related bills, particularly concerning ballot drop boxes. He noted that the Corporations Committee is considering feedback from county clerks, urging them to voice their concerns: “If this is going to cause them a lot of trouble… we need to know.” Dockstader added, “As we move into the legislative process this winter, I think you may see some changes in the election process,” anticipating “a series of smaller bills dealing with smaller topics” in the upcoming session.

Senator Dan Dockstader, R-Afton, listens during the morning session of the 68th Wyoming Legislature February 16, 2025 in the Senate Chambers. Photo by Michael Smith

Turning to energy concerns in Lincoln County, Dockstader expressed his commitment to preserving jobs related to coal mining. “Everything is in place legislatively. We put that together,” he stated. He emphasized the need for input from local business operators and county commissioners, asking, “Is this important enough for them to keep it and to preserve it and to be involved?” He concluded, “It’s now in their court.”

Senator Dockstader’s passion for natural resources was evident as he discussed logging initiatives in collaboration with the Forest Service. He praised the implementation of sustainable logging practices, stating, “We can take like these five-acre segments, start to trim those out, cut those out, and move them on to the mill.” He emphasized the necessity of forest maintenance for both economic support and fire prevention, declaring, “It’s time to go to work and get our forest straightened up, cleaned up, and put people back to work and get some cash flow going and use the product.”

Reflecting on the aftermath of the Willow Creek Fire, he expressed concerns about the Forest Service’s response, noting that crews may have been overly aggressive in creating fire lines. “They did go too far… they’re coming back in, filling it back in and fixing it up a little more,” he explained. Dockstader commended the Forest Service for their willingness to reassess their approach and suggested that, as they rebuild roads and trails, they should enhance public access to the area. “If there’s one thing that we repetitively hear, both here and at the national level, is people want access to their forest,” he added, highlighting the importance of balancing effective forest management with community needs.

Regarding property taxes, Dockstader noted recent legislative changes aimed at providing relief. “I think you’re going to see a more permanent resolve come into that,” he said, referring to the 25% property tax cut that has been a topic of considerable discussion. He assured constituents that while adjustments are necessary, the infrastructure needs of counties will be maintained.

As the session approaches, Dockstader remains focused on addressing these pressing issues, balancing the interests of his constituents with the responsibilities of governance.