The Issue
In February 2018, the Wyoming Legislature will be vote on the 2018-2019 biennium budget, which includes funding for the Wyoming State Fair through the Wyoming Department of Agriculture budget. The appropriations for the 2018 and 2019 (as adopted in 2017 session) Wyoming State Fair are insufficient to host a safe, quality State Fair for Wyoming’s FFA and 4-H members. The Governor’s proposed FY 19-20 budget includes restoration of funding sufficient to host the State Fair. Funding available in the Wyoming State Fair enterprise accounts is not adequate to cover this budget shortfall. Subsequently, without adequate funding the ability for the Department of Agriculture to host a state fair is in jeopardy.
The Wyoming Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association believes it will be imperative for the agriculture community to play an active role in monitoring, commenting on and supporting Wyoming State Fair funding appropriation. The WVATA is leading a grassroots effort to help ensure our Wyoming State Fair receives adequate legislative funding. We are seeking donations to help track and respond to this and any Wyoming State Fair related legislation. Funding will be used to develop promotional materials, prepare mailings and letters, secure contract legislative expertise or offset employee travel expenses.
Important Dates and Links for State Fair Funding
December 1 – Governor Matt Mead released budget : The Governor’s budget includes restoration of funding sufficient to host the State Fair.
December 4 – Governor presented budget to the Joint Appropriations Committee. His remarks were supportive of the Wyoming State Fair and restoring funding sufficient to host the Wyoming State Fair.
January 8 – Department of Agriculture presents budget to Joint Appropriations Committee. At this point, the Governor’s exception budget request for state fair will be presented and the Department will respond to questions.
February 12 – Wyoming Legislative Session convenes
Click here for Members of the Joint Appropriations Committee
Click here for the Joint Appropriations Committee Schedule
Important Dates and Links for Potential State Fair Advisory Board/Structure Legislation
February 12 – Wyoming Legislative Session convenes
Click here for Members of the Joint Agriculture, State and Public Lands & Water Resources Committee
Assuming the Committee does vote to sponsor, the bill will then be filed and a bill number assigned. The bill draft should appear on the LSO site. The bill once a number is assigned and LSO starts publishing bills the bill will appear as House Bills or Senate Files.