Casper Lawmaker Riggins to Miss Legislative Session Indefinitely Following Bypass Surgery

Rep. J.R. Riggins, a Republican lawmaker from Casper, will be absent from the Wyoming legislative session for an indefinite period due to a major medical procedure, Casper Star-Tribune reports.

Riggins, 65, is scheduled to undergo open-heart bypass surgery on Monday at Banner Wyoming Medical Center after doctors recommended the procedure following an initial treatment for potential angioplasty last week.

Although Riggins feels fine most of the time, stating he experiences no dizziness or shortness of breath, his doctors have advised that the bypass surgery is necessary.

“The heart muscle is in very good shape,” he noted.

Riggins  emphasized that he had not suffered a heart attack. He also reassured constituents that he has not encountered significant health issues aside from needing the surgery.

Due to his medical condition, Riggins was unable to participate in person during the previous week of the legislative session but still attended some committee hearings via livestream. He acknowledged that the bypass surgery would require a lengthy recovery period, and he shared the news with the public to prevent any rumors.

Riggins expressed confidence that the surgery would be successful but emphasized that he would not be returning to Cheyenne anytime soon. He currently serves on the Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee, as well as the Revenue Committee in the House.

A member of the House Freedom Caucus, Riggins ran uncontested in the 2024 primary election to represent House District 59.