Wyoming Lawmakers Wrap Up Budget Session

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The Wyoming Legislature has wrapped up its work a day early.

Lawmakers closed the books Thursday on a four-week session that saw lawmakers approve a $3.2 billion budget to fund operations for the next two years.

The budget bill that Gov. Matt Mead signed Thursday keeps state spending essentially flat. It gives Mead authority to spend up to $150 million in reserve funds if necessary to keep state government functioning in the face of sagging natural gas prices, until lawmakers return to Cheyenne next year.

The Legislature also put agencies on notice to brace for 4-percent cuts starting next year.

In his closing remarks to members of the House, Mead said Wyoming is proud of its ranking as being among the best-managed states in the country and said good management requires making tough choices.