Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years

House District 27 Candidate Profile: Martha Lawley - Republican

Where do you currently live and how long have you lived in House District 27?

I live in Worland. I grew up in Worland, moved out of state to attend law school, and returned in 2001.

Why are you running for House District 27?

I'm running for reelection to continue working for the people. It's been an honor to represent the citizens of House District 27 this past two years.

I'm grateful for the overwhelming support I've received from the citizens of this district!

I'm a proven conservative who has the training, experience and skills to tackle the issues Wyoming is facing.

Wyoming needs thoughtful conservative leaders who will work with others to solve problems and lead the way in preserving the values of the Wyoming we all love.

A few of my accomplishments include:

Leading the fight to ban biological boys from women's sports. 

Passing property tax relief.

Leading the fight on Parental Rights in Education. 

Co-sponsoring the Life as a Human Right bill protecting the unborn. 

Passing Second Amendment protections.

Passing a ban on irreversible sex change surgeries and medications for minors. 

Funding the 988-Suicide Prevention Hotline.

Supporting Wyoming's energy industry and workers.

Providing funds and Wyoming resources to protect the Southern Border!

To learn more about where I stand on the issues and see video clips of my work on the House Floor, go to my website, LawleyforWyoming.com.

How would you like to address rising property taxes in the state and what impact would that resolution have on residents, businesses, special tax districts and local and state government.

First, pass the Wyoming Constitutional Amendment putting residential property in its own category that will be on the ballot in November. This will open options for property tax reform that the legislature does not currently have. I also support bringing back SF 54, the 25% exemption for all homeowners. We also recently passed targeted property tax relief that is already helping homeowners.

Our local property taxes provide revenue for local services many citizens depend on. The authority to raise our own funds is an important element of maintaining local control. I do not support giving the state control over our local decision-making. In considering any property tax solution, we must consider how might this affect the local services the people of HD 27 expect from their local government. This is a particularly important issue for Washakie and Big Horn counties whose overall property valuation is significantly lower than most other counties.

What areas should the state focus on to diversify its economy, so it is not so dependent on minerals?

Wyoming is working to diversify its economy. The recent Meta Data Center in the Cheyenne is evidence of that. But I believe we can be more intentional in the following ways. First, Wyoming must become more "business ready" by eliminating unnecessary or outdated regulations. We've begun this process.

Second, address the issues that are currently inhibiting economic growth like workforce shortages, housing and childcare.

Third, specifically focus on the service industries: food, hospitality and tourism.

Fourth, expand into the new areas of mining like rare earth minerals and uranium. Wyoming has an abundance of these vital resources.

What is one other issue that you feel needs to be addressed by the State Legislature and how would you address it?

One issue I'm already working on that will need the ongoing attention of the legislature is developing policies to help our oil, gas and coal industries remain competitive in a hostile regulatory environment. Many Wyoming families and communities rely on these good energy jobs. All Wyoming benefits from a stable, reliable electricity grid and abundant fuel for our vehicles. To do this we need to provide more funds to push back against oppressive federal overreach. Additionally, we need to help the oil and gas industry meet new excessive Bureau of Land Management bonding requirements. Finally, we need to assist coal companies in opening domestic ports so we can get Wyoming coal to international markets. These efforts will help keep Wyoming energy strong and working for Wyoming!

 
 
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