Bill: Wyoming would take over parks during a shutdown
A bill introduced in the Wyoming Legislature would have the state take over operating national parks and other federal facilities within its borders if the federal government ever shuts down again.
Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks are located in Wyoming.
The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports Republican Sen. Charles Scott, of Casper, introduced Senate File 148 this week. The bill would empower the Wyoming governor to seize federal facilities, except military installations, until the federal shutdown ends.
Scott says a shutdown puts Wyoming at the mercy of the federal government when it comes to the tourism industry. And given how big an impact closing off federal parks like Yellowstone and Devils Tower National Monument would have on the economy, Scott said Wyoming needs to be ready to act.
