With budget trims and hiring freezes, state leaders are looking at appropriating Wyoming's declining resources more efficiently.In the latest round of tightening state spending, Gov. Dave Freudenthal issued an executive order Tuesday to restrict state hiring and limit non-essential spending.“Generally positions are not to be filled,” Freudenthal said in a prepared statement. “There will be exceptions based on application from the agencies, primarily in areas related to public health and safety.”Declining state revenue projections prompted the governor's decision. The University of Wyoming, Northwest College and the state's other six community colleges are excluded from the hiring restriction. However, they are encouraged to cooperate and make thoughtful hiring choices.The governor also urged agencies to look at ways to conserve energy and resources to reduce utility expenses, a step that's good for the budget and environment.While Wyoming is currently faring much better than other states, the governor's action comes as a reassurance that he is prepared to lead the state through the tough economic situation, which could grow darker still. His proactive decision to reduce state spending — before the Cowboy State economy worsens — is a wise one.Everyone certainly hopes that these restrictions are temporary and that state operations will return to business as usual in the near future. However, should Wyoming revenues continue to decline as they have recently, it is encouraging to know that a leader who exercises caution is at the helm.

With budget trims and hiring freezes, state leaders are looking at appropriating Wyoming's declining resources more efficiently.

In the latest round of tightening state spending, Gov. Dave Freudenthal issued an executive order Tuesday to restrict state hiring and limit non-essential spending.

“Generally positions are not to be filled,” Freudenthal said in a prepared statement. “There will be exceptions based on application from the agencies, primarily in areas related to public health and safety.”

Declining state revenue projections prompted the governor's decision. The University of Wyoming, Northwest College and the state's other six community colleges are excluded from the hiring restriction. However, they are encouraged to cooperate and make thoughtful hiring choices.

The governor also urged agencies to look at ways to conserve energy and resources to reduce utility expenses, a step that's good for the budget and environment.

While Wyoming is currently faring much better than other states, the governor's action comes as a reassurance that he is prepared to lead the state through the tough economic situation, which could grow darker still. His proactive decision to reduce state spending — before the Cowboy State economy worsens — is a wise one.

Everyone certainly hopes that these restrictions are temporary and that state operations will return to business as usual in the near future.

However, should Wyoming revenues continue to decline as they have recently, it is encouraging to know that a leader who exercises caution is at the helm.