Wyoming Lawmakers Pass Rule Banning Campaign Contributions During Legislative Sessions

The new rule prohibits members from accepting money from lobbyists while conducting official business.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The Wyoming House of Representatives unanimously voted to enact a new rule that forbids members from accepting campaign contributions from lobbyists during legislative sessions, whether the meetings take place in Cheyenne or elsewhere in the state. The rule comes after a Teton County GOP member was photographed passing out checks to Republican House members in front of a Democratic representative, who then shared the photo with a local news outlet.

Why it matters

This new rule aims to address concerns about the influence of money in politics and ensure that lawmakers can focus on their legislative duties without the potential distraction or appearance of impropriety from accepting campaign contributions during official proceedings. It follows a similar rule passed by the state Senate and an executive order from the governor banning the practice in state buildings.

The details

The rule was passed unanimously by the Wyoming House on Wednesday night. It prohibits "campaign contributions" from being dispensed at times and locations where legislative business is being conducted. The issue came to light after a Teton County GOP member was photographed passing out checks to Republican House members, including current House Speaker Chip Nieman, who is facing an election campaign this year.

  • The Wyoming House voted unanimously to enact the new rule on Wednesday night.
  • The Wyoming Senate passed a similar rule on Tuesday.
  • On Tuesday, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon issued an executive order banning the practice of accepting campaign contributions in state buildings.

The players

Karlee Provenza

A Democratic representative from Albany County who photographed the incident of a Teton County GOP member passing out checks to Republican House members and provided the photo to a local news outlet.

Chip Nieman

The current Republican Speaker of the Wyoming House of Representatives, who received one of the checks from the Teton County GOP member and is facing an election campaign this year.

Mark Gordon

The Governor of Wyoming, who issued an executive order on Tuesday banning the practice of accepting campaign contributions in state buildings.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.