Wyoming News Briefs

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A state legislative panel has endorsed a proposed bill that would allow silencers to be used while hunting any type of game in Wyoming. The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports the bill also includes stiffer penalties for anyone who uses a silencer to poach or take wildlife in violation of Game and Fish regulations.

LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — Exports of Wyoming soda ash were up the first half of this year while the domestic market slogged through a slow economic recovery. Wyoming Mining Association executive director Marion Loomis says about half of Wyoming soda ash production is going to Mexico, Canada and Asian and South American countries. Typically only about one-third of Wyoming's production is exported.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — An attorney for a New Mexico man who pleaded guilty to bilking investors in Wyoming and at least seven other states out of $75 million says prosecutors aren't holding up their end of a plea bargain. Doug Vaughan's attorney says the U.S. Attorney's office is reneging on a promise to put him in a prison treatment plan for alcohol issues.

PINEDALE, Wyo. (AP) — Work is expected to start soon on a new 24-mile long power line to the Pinedale Anticline oil and gas field after federal land managers said it would cause no significant environmental impacts. The power line would allow energy companies to convert some of their facilities from internal combustion engines and generators to electric power, reducing pollution.