Cities, counties continue to push for new tax program to make up lost funds

CHEYENNE — Wyoming municipalities and counties continue to urge state lawmakers to place a statewide sales and use tax direct distribution system into state law, rather than updating it every two years.

Local representatives say the current tax systems have been eroded, and their proposed solution will not raise taxes while also giving cities, towns and counties more economic growth opportunities.

On Wednesday, the Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Appropriations Committee met in Dubois to discuss the potential changes.

Currently, sales and use taxes are set at 4% statewide, with opportunities to add 2% of local tax, bringing the total up to 6%, as is currently the case in Laramie County. The tax is not collected on most groceries, prescription drugs and some professional services.

That tax