HB0135

Prohibits public officials in Wyoming from entering into nondisclosure agreements that restrict disclosure of information about public funds, public obligations, land-use impacts, or information subject to public records laws.

• Defines key terms including 'government entity' (municipal, county, or state government in Wyoming), 'public funds' (money provided by a government entity), 'public-funded project' (proposals or activities using public funds or creating ongoing obligations), and 'public official' (officers, employees, and agents of government entities). (W.S. 16-4-701)
• Prohibits public officials from entering into nondisclosure agreements or similar agreements that restrict disclosure of information about the use or commitment of public funds, public obligations or financial liabilities, impacts on land use or infrastructure, or information subject to the Public Records Act or open meeting requirements. (W.S. 16-4-702(a))
• Declares any nondisclosure agreement entered into in violation of the prohibition void and unenforceable as contrary to public policy. (W.S. 16-4-702(b))
• Prohibits public officials from negotiating or pursuing public-funded projects if another party requires nondisclosure as a condition of discussion or due diligence. (W.S. 16-4-702(c))
• Preserves the ability of public officials to protect or limit information disclosure only to the extent permitted under existing law regarding confidential materials. (W.S. 16-4-702(d), W.S. 16-4-203(d))
• Establishes that violation of the nondisclosure agreement prohibition is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to one thousand dollars. (W.S. 16-4-702(e))
• Makes violation of the prohibition sufficient cause for termination of a public employee or removal of a public official from office or position, with such removal or termination to be conducted in accordance with law. (W.S. 16-4-702(f))
• Grants Wyoming residents standing to seek declaratory judgment or injunctive relief to void any agreement or contract entered into in violation of the nondisclosure prohibition. (W.S. 16-4-702(g))