Rep. Marlene Brady

Maddy summaryHJ 6 is a proposed constitutional amendment to change Wyoming's judicial selection process. It would replace the current system - where judges are appointed by the governor from a list by a judicial nominating commission and then face retention votes - with direct elections. Under this amendment, justices and judges would run for re-election at general elections (instead of retention votes) to serve new terms, and the judicial nominating commission would be abolished. This change would apply to all Wyoming Supreme Court justices and district court judges, affecting how judicial offices are filled and maintained. The amendment requires voter approval at the next general election to become part of the Wyoming Constitution.

Maddy summaryHB 185 requires Wyoming's Legislative Service Office to provide live video broadcasts of specific public legislative meetings, including committee sessions like the joint appropriations committee, and make recordings available on the legislature's website. This applies to meetings staffed by the Legislative Service Office but excludes executive sessions and situations where broadcasting isn't reasonably possible. The bill clarifies that video recordings won't replace official written minutes and won't delay meetings or invalidate actions if broadcasting fails. It takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 330 raises the estate value threshold for simplified probate procedures in Wyoming from $200,000 to $750,000. This change directly affects Wyoming residents and nonresidents with estates valued under $750,000 (after liens), allowing them to use streamlined processes without full court administration. Key provisions include enabling heirs to file affidavits for asset collection and summary distribution, and simplifying probate for nonresident estates with property in Wyoming under the new limit. The bill also clarifies rules for disclaimers of property interests. It becomes effective July 1, 2025.