HB0157

Creates a civil cause of action for parents against the state or its subdivisions for infringement of parental rights, with exceptions to governmental immunity and claims procedures.

• Establishes that a governmental entity is liable for damages resulting from a violation of parental rights protections under W.S. 14-2-206. (Sec. 1, W.S. 1-39-125)
• Adds parental rights liability as an exception to the general governmental immunity from tort liability granted under Wyoming law. (Sec. 2, W.S. 1-39-104(a))
• Exempts parental rights claims from the requirement to present a written claim to the governmental entity within two years before filing a civil action, as normally required under the Wyoming Governmental Claims Act. (Sec. 2, W.S. 1-39-113(a), W.S. 14-2-206(d))
• Exempts parental rights claims from the prohibition on exemplary, punitive damages, pre-judgment interest, and attorney's fees that normally apply to governmental entity suits. (Sec. 2, W.S. 1-39-118(d), W.S. 14-2-206(d))
• Allows parents to seek declaratory and injunctive relief in district court for governmental infringement of parental rights, with courts required to award reasonable attorney fees and costs to prevailing parents. (Sec. 2, W.S. 14-2-206(d))

Effective: July 1, 2026

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