Wyoming Lawmakers Push Bill To Curb Kids' Access To Explicit Library Materials

A New Chapter in Library Content Regulations

The Wyoming Legislature's Joint Judiciary Committee is making waves with its latest decision to advance a bill targeting sexually explicit materials in libraries accessible to children. The bill received substantial backing, passing with an 11-2 vote. Notably, Rep. Ken Chestek [D-Albany County] and Sen. Barry Crago [R-Johnson, Sheridan counties] voted against the proposal, while Sen. Gary Crum [R-Albany County] was not present during the vote.

Restrictions and Lawsuits: The Bill's Key Provisions

Central to the bill is a provision allowing individuals to sue schools and libraries if explicit content is found in areas accessible to minors. Initially, the bill suggested a potential $50,000 in damages, though this was later reduced to $500. However, the final version eliminated any specific monetary amount, aiming instead to prevent unnecessary legal battles from outside parties by restricting lawsuits to local residents.

Trustees and Content Review

An additional amendment empowers trustees to evaluate and voluntarily remove contentious materials following public complaints. This change reflects an effort to balance content control with community involvement.

"I am grateful to the citizens of Wyoming who have shown overwhelmingly that we must protect our children's innocence," Rep. Ann Lucas [R-Laramie County] expressed. "The Joint Judiciary Committee worked hard on this bill that will get the lewd sex books out of children's libraries. No books are being banned. We're just putting sex books in adult control, where they belong."

Voices Against the Bill

Despite the bill's intent, critics argue that it borders on censorship, with decisions best left to professional librarians. Opponents worry that the legislation could lead to slippery slopes in regulating content and stress the importance of preserving intellectual freedom.

As the debate unfolds, the bill's future hinges on the 2026 legislative session, where non-budget matters will demand a two-thirds majority to proceed. Both supporters and critics will undoubtedly continue to voice their perspectives on this contentious issue.