Governor Mark Gordon commended State Senate President Bo Biteman on March 4th, for his leadership in advancing House Bill 199 – The Steamboat Legacy Scholarship Act – which expands educational opportunities for Wyoming Pre-K-12 students.

At a media gathering on March 4th, the Governor lauded the landmark piece of legislation as being responsive to the priorities of Wyoming families while maintaining fiscal accountability. The Governor will host a public signing of HB 199 at 1:30 PM on March 4th, in the Governor’s Ceremonial Conference Room at the State Capitol Building.

“I applaud President Biteman for his leadership and tenacity in advancing two key conservative priorities, making Wyoming the first state in the nation to implement a Pre-K voucher program to empower parents with more choices for young learners,” said Governor Gordon, “This Act also expands education savings accounts for K-12 students to give families greater flexibility to choose the best educational path for their children.”

The Governor also praised the bill’s accountability measures and its funding structure. He noted it was amended to be funded through the General Fund rather than the School Foundation Account and called it “a bold step towards strengthening our state’s future.”

“By investing in early childhood education, we’re not only supporting working families and empowering parents, we’re also making a smart, fiscally responsible decision,” Governor Gordon said, “High quality pre-K programs reduce long-term costs by minimizing the need for remedial education and social services ensuring better outcomes for Wyoming’s children.”

Gordon underscored the importance of collaboration between legislative leaders and the Governor’s Office in delivering meaningful policies that benefit Wyoming families.