It is never too early to get our youth engaged in democracy. Below is the story of a bill I am proud to be supporting as a path for our young people to understand the legislative process and see just how accessible Wyoming truly is.

A few students under the guidance of Charles Woolwine the science teacher at Pathfinder High School in Lander been working with the legislative delegation from Fremont County to pass legislation designating the Tiger Salamander as the official state amphibian. These students after making a study of the creature and learning it is the only salamander found in Wyoming and is found throughout the state. They brought their suggestion to Senator Case who had the bill drafted. Representatives Salazar, and Clifford along with myself have signed on as co-sponsors. The bill has passed the Senate where Fremont County Senator Eli Bebout also supported the effort.

This weekend we were able to return to Lander, and yesterday (Sunday) the girls from Pathfinder High School, Alyssa Woody, Acaisha LeBeau, and Jordan Gowen along with Mr. Woodwine met at my office to strategize how the House of Representative should be approached to insure the Salamander bill SF-50 will get passed.

The girls met with Governor Gordon while working the Senate and have secured his support for bill if it is successful in the House.

Picture left to right

Acaisha LeBeau, Jordan Gowen, Alyssa Woody and Representative Larsen spend time in Representative Larsen’s office working on the legislation created by the girls to designate the Tiger Salamander as the State Amphibian.