Lessons in law making
Jack Russell of Cody provides an interesting lesson when it comes to higher education.
Russell is a key member of the Wyoming Community College Commission. Speaking recently to a new task force created by the Wyoming Legislature, Russell wisely notes it could well contribute to a badly needed restructuring of how this state’s vital community college system is funded.
The lesson here — learn how the Legislature works. Set priorities and speak with one clear voice.
Unfortunately when it comes to parceling out state money, the process can become a political game. Winning means understanding not only the players, but the rules.
Survey a majority of Wyoming’s lawmakers and odds are most will agree the system needs changing. But lawmakers need to justify to voters in their respective districts why restructuring the system is better for everyone in the long run.
This task force’s challenge is to not only understand the fiasco of the last legislative session, but take those lessons learned and write a new playbook.
