Governor Matt Mead is evaluating a letter sent by Director Gregory J. Gould of the Department of Interior, Office of Natural Resources Revenue, to the State Treasurer’s Office. The correspondence is dated Friday, March 22 and was received on the afternoon of Monday, March 25 by the State Treasurer’s Office.

In his letter, Director Gould indicates that, beginning in March 2013 and continuing through July 2013, over $53 million dollars of mineral revenue payments payable to the State of Wyoming will be withheld under sequestration. The monthly amount withheld will be $10,616,442.00 with the possibility of more withholding in August and September. Under federal law, Wyoming is guaranteed 50% of the revenues from mineral leasing on federal lands in this state.

Governor Mead has sought advice from the Attorney General’s Office on recourse available to the State of Wyoming for this impending federal action. All options are being considered. Governor Mead said he is also concerned about the timing of the March letter which addresses federal action set to begin immediately. He said this is no way to achieve adequate notice or give our State an opportunity to respond before the action is underway.

Governor Mead is consulting the Congressional delegation and neighboring states that are similarly affected, as well as Attorney General Greg Phillips.

 

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