CHEYENNE — Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon laid out a forward-looking agenda in his 2022 State of the State address, calling for Wyoming to embrace new opportunities and innovation in energy, education and economic development.

Gordon kicked off the 66th Wyoming Legislature this morning with the annual address outlining the needs, goals and plans for the state.

“Despite tremendous challenges, Wyoming is strong and getting stronger. We are strong because of our character, resilient because of our nature, and optimistic because Wyoming people are doers,” Gordon said. “I believe there is an undeniable momentum in Wyoming these days.”

He called for a frugal budget and renewed his call for an energy policy that includes $100 million to use as matching funds on Wyoming energy projects.

Wyoming has it all: the best wind, solar, gas, coal, nuclear and the ability to store 50 years’ worth of our nation’s total carbon emissions. Innovation, not regulation, is our way forward to give our nation the energy it requires and simultaneously solve the world’s climate concerns.

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon

Gordon also emphasized the need to address Wyoming’s Emergency Medical System, bolster the state’s outdoor recreation economy, and invest in the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust. 

Other points of emphasis in the Governor’s speech included a market adjustment for state employees to ensure the state is able to retain its workforce and to counter federal policies that are driving up inflation.

He also outlined the goals of two major initiatives– the Wyoming Innovation Partnership (WIP) and the Re-imagining and Innovating the Delivery of Education (RIDE) Advisory Group.

“Wyoming is actually bursting with opportunity across all of our sectors,” the Governor said. “We want our education system to be part of the way we grow.”

The Governor’s State of the State written address is available here and may be viewed below.