In response to a devastating wildfire season that scorched over 810,000 acres across Wyoming, state lawmakers on Tuesday voted to reduce Governor Mark Gordon’s proposed $130 million recovery fund to $100 million, Oil City News reports.
The funding, initially intended as grants, will now be offered as low-interest loans through the Wyoming Business Council at a 2% interest rate.
The decision followed a motion led by Rep. Abby Angelos, a Republican from Gillette and member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, during a Joint Appropriations Committee meeting. Angelos described the change as a compromise between Gordon’s original request and a failed motion by Rep. Dan Laursen, R-Powell, who sought to cut the funding to $60 million.
The 2024 wildfire season in Wyoming was described as one of the most severe in the state’s history. Approximately 70% of the damage affected private and state lands. Fires such as the House Draw Fire in Johnson County burned nearly 175,000 acres, causing an estimated $25 million in economic damage. The Flat Rock and Constitution fires near Gillette charred a combined 77,000 acres.
The state’s firefighting funds were fully depleted, along with contingency accounts from the governor’s office and Homeland Security, prompting Gordon’s plea for replenishment. He stressed the need for recovery funding to address invasive grasses, restore watersheds, rehabilitate habitats, and replace lost agricultural infrastructure.
Angelos’ motion to shift recovery funds to a loan program received broad support from Republican committee members. However, some lawmakers, including Reps. Trey Sherwood, D-Laramie, and Scott Smith, R-Lingle, opposed the move.
Angelos explained her reasoning for the loan approach:
“This is the people of Wyoming’s money, and we are accountable to them for it. Offering low-interest loans provides an opportunity for those affected by the fires to rebuild if they choose not to seek federal aid.”
Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Tim Salazar expressed support for the decision, stating:
“There is a role for government in some things, but landowners should also bear responsibility for unforeseen events.”
Senate President Bo Biteman, whose district was heavily impacted by the Elk Fire, also endorsed the loan model.
“Grant funding is just giving money away,” he said.
Biteman hinted at plans for a small business emergency loan program for future natural disasters.
Governor Gordon criticized the decision to reduce and restructure the recovery funds, emphasizing the urgent need for timely aid.
“This is a top priority,” he stated in a press release.
The Governor announced community forums in Gillette and Sheridan next week to discuss recovery strategies.
The supplemental budget will still require approval from both chambers and the governor’s signature before taking effect. Lawmakers and stakeholders will continue discussions to find a balance between supporting landowners and maintaining fiscal accountability.
