America Forward — Democratic Platform Scorecard
AMERICA FORWARD
U.S. Cong. RanksState Ranksionicons-v5-aStatistical Dataionicons-v5-aBuild Your Own PlatformAboutionicons-v5-a
Affie Ellis — Republican State Senator for Wyoming District 8 (official headshot)

Affie Ellis Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform

WY Senator

District: 8 • Republican

2024 DEM Alignment:

40.91%

Lifetime Alignment:

42.45%

View Member History

Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter

Click Icon to Filter Table

Sen. Affie Ellis (R-WY-8) earned a 41% National Democrat Platform score for 2024, showing limited alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Affie Ellis voted on 44 of the 48 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2024. Across 2 years rated, Affie Ellis's lifetime Dem Platform score averages 42%, with 94 votes recorded across 99 scored bills. Affie Ellis represents the 8th District in the Wyoming State Senate.

Title

Lawmaker Position

HB 1Senate 20241x

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Enacting an $11 Billion Budget - the Largest in State History with Significant Waste.

Against DEMs
This bill, the biennial appropriations bill, enacts the budget for fiscal years 2025-2026. As passed by the legislature, the budget includes over $11 billion in appropriations and transfers and 7,149 full-time employees. Most notably, the budget appropriates over $2.2 billion for the Department of Health and over $771.9 million for the Community College Commission and the University of Wyoming. Other provisions in the bill include $2.5 million for matching funds for "economic development and community assistance" if a public airport is selected for the National Championship Air Races, $17 million to the University of Wyoming "for demonstrations of coal solvent extraction and a coal-derived asphalt road" and $1 million "to increase the library collections'' biennial budget." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 125 (Amd. S2001)Senate 20241x

Weakening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Undermining the Bill Repealing Most Gun-Free Zones.

Against DEMs
The Landen amendment #S2001 to the Wyoming Repeal Gun Free Zones Act. This amendment adds language to a provision allowing individuals with a concealed carry permit to possess a firearm in public colleges and universities, making this subject to the schools'' rules or policies. Under the amendment, public colleges and universities are required to establish rules or policies that "ensure the health, safety and welfare in the college''s or university''s student dormitories and residence halls." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment provides public colleges and universities much greater ability to place additional regulations on firearms in residential areas.
HB 138Senate 20241x

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending by Appropriating Up to $3.94 Million for Public Television and the State Fair.

Against DEMs
This bill appropriates $2.035 million to the Wyoming Public Television matching funds account and $1.905 million to the State Fair endowment account (or enough to bring the balance of each fund to $5 million, whichever is less). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as public television and state fairs are not core nor necessary functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 148Senate 20241x

Protecting Life by Increasing Regulation of Surgical Abortions.

With DEMs
This bill contains several provisions related to abortion. Under the bill, surgical abortion facilities must be licensed and must follow Department of Health regulations. The bill also requires that only physicians perform surgical abortions, with violations set as a felony punishable by 1-14 years in prison. The physician also must have admitting privileges at a hospital within 10 miles. Finally, the bill requires an ultrasound at least 48 hours before a surgical abortion is performed or drugs are dispensed for a chemical abortion. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect the lives of unborn children. All abortions are tragedies and every child deserves the right to life.
HB 148 (Amd. S3001)Senate 20241x

Weakening the Ultrasound Requirement for Abortions by Eliminating the Requirement that it be at Least 48 Hours Before an Abortion is Performed.

Against DEMs
The Rothfuss amendment #S3001 to a bill increasing regulation of surgical abortions. This amendment eliminates the requirement that an ultrasound be performed at least 48 hours before a surgical abortion is performed, or drugs are dispensed for a chemical abortion. As a result, an ultrasound would only be required sometime before the abortion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment weakens the underlying bill by undermining the ultrasound requirement. All abortions are tragedies and every child deserves the right to life.
HB 166Senate 20241x

Improving Educational Outcomes by Expanding School Choice Through an Education Savings Account Program.

With DEMs
This bill, the Wyoming Education Savings Accounts Act, allows all students who are eligible to enroll in public K-12 (or at least 4 years old but not yet old enough to attend public school), and whose household income is 500% or less of the federal poverty line, to receive funding for prekindergarten or educational expenses such as tuition at a private school, textbooks, and tutoring. The Governor later line-item vetoed a portion of the bill to reduce the maximum household income to 150% of the federal poverty line. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.
HB 3Senate 20241x

Increasing Property Tax Burdens by Creating a Property Tax Exemption for Certain Older Individuals Which Merely Shifts Burdens onto other Property Owners and Masks Underlying Spending Problems.

Against DEMs
This bill provides a 50% property tax exemption to individuals who are 65 or older and have paid property taxes in the state for at least 25 years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while the intent of this bill is noble, all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. Providing a property tax exemption for one set of individuals inevitably results in tax burdens being shifted to other property owners not favored by government, including taxpayers statewide and seniors who rent homes. Additionally, this bill merely masks the underlying cause for rapidly rising property taxes - out of control government spending.
HB 4Senate 20241x

Providing Property Tax Relief by Expanding the Property Tax Credit Maximum Income Threshold.

With DEMs
This bill expands eligibility for the state property tax credit by increasing the maximum income threshold, from 125% of the median gross household income for the county, to 165%. Individuals with an income over 125% are eligible for a reduced percentage of the credit. The bill also applies to counties that adopt an optional property tax refund. Support is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.
HB 43Senate 20241x

Expanding Government Bureaucracy by Doubling State Forester Staff for Federal Forest Management Projects.

Against DEMs
This bill doubles the number of employees the State Forester may hire for Good Neighbor Authority projects and other federal cooperative projects. The bill authorizes 4 full-time employees (previously 1) and 6 contract employees (previously 4). These positions are funded through federal funds for forest management projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands bureaucracy and spending through State Forester staff expansion. While federal funds are used for the positions, state and federal lawmakers should privatize and sell federal and state land - including enormous land holdings west of the Mississippi. The private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization. Further growing government control and ownership of land merely drives up taxpayer costs and leads to further government spending initiatives.
HB 45Senate 20241x

Providing Property Tax Relief by Exempting Annual Property Value Increases Exceeding 4%.

With DEMs
This bill exempts property value that is more than a 4% annual increase from property taxes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides broad property tax relief to homeowners. All state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone.
HB 67Senate 20241x

Fueling Wasteful and Out-Of-Control Spending Through the Creation of an Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Account Board.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes a board for the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Account and provides a $6 million biennial appropriation. Funds may be used for grants for purposes such as construction or improvement of "outdoor recreational infrastructure" and for "public access easements", with projects of $200,000 or more requiring legislative approval. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to ensure resources are invested in the most impactful initiatives that have the greatest returns. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund wasteful and unnecessary initiatives which do not pertain to the core functions of government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 71Senate 20241x

Enriching Comcast and Other Woke Corporations by Forcing Taxpayers to Provide "Broadband Equity" Through a Government Central Planning Scheme.

Against DEMs
This bill contains a major provision which requires taxpayers to provide matching funds for broadband expansion, which will unlock additional funds under the federal "Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector and free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. This measure forces taxpayers to enrich woke corporations such as Comcast for infrastructure which may soon be unnecessary due to significant advances in satellite technology from Comcast''s competitors, such as Elon Musk''s Starlink.
HB 74Senate 20241x

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Authorizing the Department of Health to Request Budget Increases for Nurse Compensation Rather than Reduce Unnecessary Spending.

Against DEMs
This bill allows the Department of Health to increase its budget request if "compensation to state public health nursing employees is increased." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government spending. Rather than request budget increases, the department should reduce unnecessary spending elsewhere. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 75Senate 20241x

Increasing Taxpayer-Funded State Construction Projects by Expanding the Scope of Capital Construction Projects.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the scope of capital construction projects by adding "major maintenance" and "alteration or enlargement" to the definition. As a result, state funds for projects through the State Construction Department may be used for a larger number of projects for state and college properties. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases taxpayer costs by expanding taxpayer-funded state construction projects, as the State Construction Department makes funding recommends.
SF 101Senate 20241x

Lowering Electricity Rates by Imposing Carbon Dioxide Capture Requirements on Public Utilities.

Against DEMs
This bill repeals the "Reliable and Dispatchable Low-Carbon Energy Standards" which required the Public Service Commission to establish rules to "maximize the use of dispatchable and reliable low-carbon electricity," which included a requirement that a certain percentage of electricity generated by a utility company "be dispatchable and reliable low-carbon electricity." The provisions also allowed utilities to recover the costs through "rate recovery" by charging customers a fee of up to 2% of their bill. Utilities are required to refund customers for this charge, except for funds the utility spent on "carbon capture, utilization and storage technology." Support is the Limited Government Position as these standards unnecessarily drive-up electricity costs for families and businesses in order to advance a politicized environmental and climate change agenda and place ratepayers even further on the hook for the enormous cost of the carbon capture technology.
SF 103Senate 20241x

Increasing Food Freedom by Allowing the Sale of Certain Uninspected Meat Products if Allowed Under Federal Law.

With DEMs
This bill amends the Wyoming Food Freedom Act to allow the sale of certain uninspected meat products. This includes meat from cattle, sheep, swine, and goats, and the animals must be raised in the state and slaughtered on the producer''s property or at a "custom slaughter facility" (facilities with no state or federal inspector). The products may only be sold directly to consumers and must include a warning that the meat was not inspected. Such sales are currently prohibited under federal law, so this would only take effect if the federal law were changed, or a court strikes down the prohibition. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases food freedom and consumer choice by allowing producers to sell their products directly to consumers without government inspection.
SF 107 (Senate Version)Senate 20241x

Expanding Government Overreach and Infringing Individual Liberties by Prohibiting the Sale of Nicotine Dispensing Devices Not Authorized by the FDA.

With DEMs
This bill makes it illegal to sell nicotine dispensing devices, such as vaping products and e-cigarettes, that are not listed on the state directory. The ban begins either February 1, 2025 or when the directory is publicly available, whichever is later. To be included in the directory, a product must be authorized or pending review by the FDA. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill infringes individual liberties and expands government overreach through a one-size-fits-all government mandate. The bill provides an advantage to big tobacco companies and is expected to drive countless small vape shops out of business.
SF 108Senate 20241x

Protecting Life and Public Health Through Regulations on Chemical Abortions and Abortion Drug Disposal.

Against DEMs
This bill contains several provisions related to chemical abortions. Most notably, the bill establishes several requirements for chemical abortions, such as the healthcare provider physically examining the patient and being physically present when the first drugs are taken. The bill also requires "a catch kit and medical waste bag" to be provided to the mother, with instructions to return the kit and bag to the healthcare provider for disposal. Under the bill, violations are punishable by up to 3 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $10,000, although the mother may not be prosecuted. Additionally, the bill prohibits any abortion drug from entering disposal or sewage systems or the public water supply and makes manufacturers responsible for any environmental effects that result from such drugs entering the water supply "as a result of the disposal of tainted human remains from at-home abortions." If "endocrine-disrupting chemicals" from abortion drugs are found in public water, manufacturers are also responsible for the cleanup and "further preventative measures" required by the Department of Health. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect the lives of unborn children. All abortions are tragedies and every child deserves the right to life.
SF 110Senate 20241x

Hiking Taxes by Extending the "Temporary" Increase in Maximum School District Cash Reserves.

With DEMs
This bill extends the provision which increased the amount of cash reserves school districts may hold, from 15% to 30% of School Foundation Program funds. This temporary increase was enacted due to federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds included in several COVID bills and had been set to expire in 2026. This bill extends the increase for an additional 2 years, to 2028. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill results in higher taxes as it allows school districts to hold more money in reserves.
SF 116Senate 20241x

Repealing the Crony Tax Exemption Provided to Government-Favored Wind Energy Projects.

Against DEMs
This bill repeals the 3-year excise tax exemption for electricity produced by wind turbines. Support is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This bill reduces central planning and tax cronyism, which enriches the renewable energy industry while shifting tax burdens onto other property owners.
SF 120Senate 20241x

Strengthening National Security by Providing that Driver''s Licenses Issued by Other States to Illegal Immigrants are Invalid.

With DEMs
This bill provides that driver''s licenses issued by a state to illegal immigrants are invalid in Wyoming. This includes both special driver''s licenses issued only to illegal immigrants, as well as driver''s licenses that indicate the person did not provide proof of legal residence. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps deter illegal immigration, which places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.
SF 124Senate 20241x

Improving Education Outcomes and Strengthening "Right to Work" Protections for Teachers by Prohibiting Teacher Strikes and Guaranteeing the Right to Not Join a Union.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits teachers and teachers'' unions from striking, with a penalty of $5,000 per day. Additionally, the bill provides that teachers are not compensated while striking. The bill also guarantees teachers the right to join, or refrain from joining, a union. Support is the Limited Government Position as government entities should not recognize public sector unions, which unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer costs and make it more difficult to terminate poor-performing employees. All employees should have the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.
SF 128Senate 20241x

Improving Educational Outcomes and Expanding School Choice by Authorizing Additional Charter Schools.

With DEMs
This bill authorizes non-school district entities to operate 3 additional charter schools starting July 1, 2024 (previously 1 additional charter school starting July 1, 2026). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.
SF 1 (Amd. S3020)Senate 20241x

Advancing a Government Take-Over of Healthcare by Appropriating Funds to Study Prescription Drug Production in the State.

With DEMs
The Nethercott amendment #S3020 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment requires $250,000 of the appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council to be used for "a feasibility study" on creating or expanding generic drug production in the state with the intent of lowering prescription drug costs for Wyoming residents." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to promote drug production and compete with the private sector. Rather, the key to lowering drug costs is through major reforms at the federal level that reduce regulatory barriers at the FDA.
SF 1 (Amd. S3023)Senate 20241x

Advancing the Growth of the Government Surveillance State and Even Greater Control Over Money by Restoring the $5.8 Million Appropriation to the Wyoming Stable Token Commission.

Against DEMs
The Rothfuss amendment #S3023 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment restores the $5.8 million appropriation to the Wyoming Stable Token Commission, which had been eliminated in a previous amendment. This commission was established in 2023 to develop and issue "Wyoming stable tokens," a virtual currency redeemable for 1 U.S. Dollar. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the creation of federally or state-controlled currencies serve as an existential threat to individual liberties and privacy and will further grow government control over the economy. The Fed has already placed the U.S. dollar in dire jeopardy of destruction through its reckless quantitative easing and expansionary practices. Additionally, the state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3030)Senate 20241x

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending by Eliminating the $20 Million Appropriation to the Wyoming''s Tomorrow Scholarship Endowment Fund.

Against DEMs
The Biteman amendment #S3030 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the $20 million appropriation to the Wyoming''s Tomorrow Scholarship Endowment Fund. This program provides scholarships to adults 24 or older who attend the University of Wyoming or community colleges. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e., tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. The state must instead pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3033)Senate 20241x

Raiding the State''s Rainy Day Fund to Channel $15 Million to the Highway Fund.

With DEMs
The Boner amendment #S3033 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment transfers $15 million from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Fund, commonly referred to as the "rainy day" fund, to the Highway Fund. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as any excessive monies within the state''s rainy-day fund should be returned to taxpayers through tax cuts. Rather than increasing funding, lawmakers should make major reforms to cut wasteful spending within the Department of Transportation. If funding needs still exist, this should be done by cutting spending elsewhere and reprioritizing, not raiding the rainy-day fund. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3039)Senate 20241x

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending and Promoting Fiscal Responsibility by Eliminating the $75 Million Research Funds Appropriation to the University of Wyoming.

With DEMs
The Anderson amendment #S3039 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the $75 million appropriation to the University of Wyoming for matching research funds, and transfers the $75 million to the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Fund, commonly referred to as the "rainy day" fund. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice - college and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e. tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. The state must instead pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3041)Senate 20241x

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending by Eliminating the $200 Million Appropriation for Large Energy Projects.

Against DEMs
The Steinmetz amendment #S3041 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment eliminates the $200 million appropriation for matching funds for large energy projects. This includes projects such as carbon capture, hydrogen production, and wind and solar energy. Additionally, the amendment reduces funding for smaller energy projects by $5 million, from $55 million to $50 million. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize energy projects. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3060.02)Senate 20241x

Reducing Out-Of-Control Spending by Cutting the Appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council by $12 Million.

Against DEMs
The Laursen amendment #S3060.02 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment reduces the appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council by $12 million. As part of this reduction, the amendment eliminates language in the bill requiring $2 million of the appropriation to be used for "an economic development laboratory." Support is the Limited Government Position as these spending initiatives go directly against the principles of fiscal restraint and limited government. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 1 (Amd. S3061)Senate 20241x

Expanding Cronyism by Directing $8 Million to be Used for Workforce Housing Grants.

Against DEMs
The Landen amendment #S3061 to the biennial appropriations bill. This amendment requires $8 million of the appropriation to the Wyoming Business Council to be used to provide grants for infrastructure through the Wyoming \tBusiness Ready Community Program "for housing to attract, retain and expand Wyoming''s workforce." This program provides grants and loans to local governments, certain Native American tribes, and the cooperative tribal governing body. The amendment requires the full amount of a grant to be passed on to the purchaser of the home. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these spending initiatives go directly against the principles of fiscal restraint and limited government. Instead of growing government and central planning, lawmakers should empower the free market to make housing truly "affordable" by reducing stringent zoning regulations which significantly drive-up housing costs.
SF 20Senate 20241x

Protecting Wyoming Residents from Higher Electric Utility Rates by Excluding System Costs from Recovery that Do Not Benefit Wyoming Residents.

With DEMs
This bill requires that the Public Service Commission, when determining electric utility rates for interstate utilities, exclude system costs that do not benefit Wyoming residents, such as proportional costs for facilities that primarily benefit other states, and certain other costs. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill protects against higher electric utility rates by ensuring Wyoming residents are not forced to pay for costs that benefit customers in other states.
SF 33Senate 20241x

Growing Government Central Planning by Forcing Taxpayers to Fund "Incentive Payments" to Attorneys in Certain Rural Areas.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Rural Attorney Recruitment Program, which provides taxpayer-funded "incentive payments" annually for 5 years to attorneys who agree to practice law in certain rural areas for at least 5 years. The program is limited to 5 attorneys and the payments are equal to 90% of the annual University of Wyoming law school''s resident tuition. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to determine the need and distribution of attorneys across the state. Taxpayers in urban areas should not be forced to subsidize the amenities of individuals who choose to locate in rural or other portions of the state where attorneys are not as accessible.
SF 39Senate 20241x

Fueling Wasteful Spending by Appropriating $150,000 for a Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Film.

Against DEMs
This bill appropriates $150,000 for the state Fire Marshal to create a volunteer firefighter recruitment film. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while ensuring public safety serves as an essential component of government, this bill represents unnecessary spending. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 41Senate 20241x

Reducing Accountability and Paving the Way for Lavish Government Salaries Through a Special Salary Exemption for Division of Banking Employees.

Against DEMs
This bill exempts the Division of Banking from the state''s compensation plan established by the Human Resources Division, which applies to all executive branch employees except the University of Wyoming and community colleges. The bill instead allows the State Banking Commissioner to set the salaries for the division''s employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this special exemption reduces accountability and oversight and paves the way for lavish salaries.
SF 57Senate 20241x

Growing Government Dependency Through a New Welfare Program to Provide Free Hearing Aids.

Against DEMs
This bill creates a new program to provide one set of hearing aids every five years to individuals 18 or older with a family income of 200% or less of the federal poverty line, and who are not eligible to receive hearing aids through private insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further traps individuals into government dependency by growing benefits under the government welfare state. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 60Senate 20241x

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Appropriating $2.15 Million for Three Wildlife and Natural Resource Projects.

With DEMs
This bill appropriates $2.15 million for three wildlife and natural resource projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization - including for conservation purposes. Measures such as this merely drive-up taxpayer costs and oftentimes lead to even greater government spending surrounding usage and preservation of the conserved land. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
SF 61 (Veto Override)Senate 20241x

Improving Educational Outcomes and Expanding School Choice by Making it Easier for Charter Schools to Apply for Grants.

With DEMs
This motion overrides the Governor''s veto of a bill that authorizes school district-approved charter schools to operate as a local education agency for purposes of applying for state and federal grants. The bill also requires school districts to include charter schools within the district when distributing funds based on attendance. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.
SF 78Senate 20241x

Raiding the State''s Rainy-Day Fund to Provide $10 Million in Stimulus Payments for Enhanced Oil and Gas Recovery.

Against DEMs
This bill appropriates $10 million from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account, commonly referred to as the "rainy day" fund, for "enhanced oil recovery stimulus" payments. Under the program, "carbon dioxide providers" who capture and store carbon dioxide emitted in the state, then sell the carbon dioxide to be used for enhanced oil and gas recovery, are eligible for a stimulus payment based on the amount of carbon dioxide. The funds are to be replaced with severance tax revenue from enhanced oil and gas recovery which used carbon dioxide for which a stimulus payment was received. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as any excessive monies within the state''s rainy-day fund should be returned to taxpayers through tax cuts. Additionally, taxpayer funds are unnecessarily placed at risk in the event the projects do not generate the expected amount of revenue.
SF 87Senate 20241x

Expanding Individual Liberties and Tax Revenue by Allowing the Sale and Consumption of Alcohol at Certain Hotels.

With DEMs
This bill allows certain hotels to sell liquor by creating a new "boutique hotel liquor license." This applies to boutique hotels that meet certain requirements, such as having at least 35 rooms and a restaurant, and a property value of at least $10 million. The bill also allows license holders to sell unopened liquor and wine for on-premises consumption. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands consumer choice and individual liberties while also generating additional sales tax revenue for taxpayers.
SF 9Senate 20241x

Strengthening the Integrity of the Public Education System by Increasing Parental Rights.

With DEMs
This bill contains a number of provisions designed to strengthen parental rights. Firstly, the bill requires school districts to obtain parental consent for a student to receive instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity. Secondly, it requires parental consent for a student to take any well-being questionnaire or health screenings. Thirdly, school districts are forbidden from enacting any policies which prohibit school personnel from notifying parents of a "student''s educational, physical, mental or emotional health or well-being", among other protections, such as access to their child''s student health records. Support is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights in their child''s education are a critical element of a free society. This measure ensures children are not subjected to sensitive topics without the consent of parents.
SF 93Senate 20241x

Fueling Wealth Redistribution by Authorizing Dividends with Excessive Rainy-Day Funds.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Wyoming Dividend Account within the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account, commonly referred to as the "rainy day" fund, and authorizes the legislature to provide dividends to residents. The funds for the bill will come from a percentage of certain earnings of the Wyoming Mineral Trust Fund. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill fuels wealth redistribution by providing dividends with excessive rainy-day funds. Instead, any excessive monies within the state''s rainy-day fund should be utilized for broad tax relief.
SF 97Senate 20241x

Reducing Deception by Political Campaigns Through a Limitation on the Distribution of Unsolicited Absentee Ballot Request Forms.

With DEMs
This bill limits the distribution of an unsolicited absentee ballot request form "that claims to be or is deceptively similar to an official election document" to only county clerks and the Secretary of State unless a voter specifically requests one, preventing individuals and third-party groups from distributing the forms unless specifically requested. The bill is in response to actions taken by Liz Cheney''s 2022 campaign which sent a mailer which included the phrase "official election documents enclosed." Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining strong safeguards against voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation''s constitutional republic.
SJ 4Senate 20241x

Applying for a Convention of the States to Propose Constitutional Amendments Imposing Term Limits and Fiscal Restraints.

Against DEMs
This resolution applies to Congress for a convention of the states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution "that impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government and limit the terms of office for federal officials and members of Congress." Support is the Limited Government Position as term limits are a critical tool to ensure government remains accountable to the people and not lobbyists or special interests. A review of voting records shows the majority of lawmakers become less conservative in their voting the longer they remain in office. Additionally, lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 125Senate 20241x

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Repealing "Gun-Free Zones".

Neutral
This bill, the Wyoming Repeal Gun Free Zones Act, repeals most "gun-free zones" in the state by allowing individuals with a concealed carry permit to possess a firearm in public schools, including colleges and universities, and other locations. Support is the Limited Government Position as "gun free zones" do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law.
SF 109Senate 20241x

Blocking the Seizure of Firearms without Due Process by Prohibiting "Red Flag" Laws.

Neutral
This bill, the Prohibit Red Flag Gun Seizure Act, prohibits the state and local governments from enacting or enforcing a "red flag gun seizure order," which allows a court to issue an order authorizing a firearm seizure based on an "ex-parte" (one-sided) petition that alleges the firearms owner is a danger to themselves or others. Support is the Limited Government Position as the one-sided petition violates due process under the law (an individual can''t provide their defense) and these programs often lack provisions that prevent nefarious individuals from abusing the system to harass or harm law-abiding individuals, thus unduly infringing their Second Amendment protections and leaving them defenseless.
SF 13Senate 20241x

Protecting Wyoming Residents from Federal Government Overreach by Authorizing the Legislature to Bring Legal Challenges to Federal Actions.

Neutral
This bill expands existing law that allows the legislature to bring certain legal challenges. Under the bill, the legislature may now challenge "federal acts including federal purchases of land within the state." The bill allows the legislative management council to borrow up to $75 million from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account for the legal challenges. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides the authority to challenge overreaching federal actions. While the bill allows the legislature to spend significant funds from the rainy-day fund, the bill contains repayment provisions designed to protect taxpayers.
SF 99Senate 20241x

Protecting Children Under 18 from Sex-Reassignment Surgeries and Prescriptions with Irreversible Implications Until they are Old Enough to Consent.

Neutral
This bill prohibits children under 18 years of age from receiving sex-reassignment procedures or puberty blockers until they reach the age of consent. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is a role of government to protect children from abuse and physical harm. Irreversible decisions such as sex-reassignments should not be made until an individual reaches the age of consent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sen. Affie Ellis's voting record?

Sen. Affie Ellis (R-WY-8) earned a 41% National Democrat Platform score for 2024, showing limited alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Affie Ellis voted on 44 of the 48 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2024. Across 2 years rated, Affie Ellis's lifetime Dem Platform score averages 42%, with 94 votes recorded across 99 scored bills. Affie Ellis represents the 8th District in the Wyoming State Senate.

How aligned is Affie Ellis with Democratic Party Platform principles?

Affie Ellis earned a 41% National Democrat Platform score in 2024, showing limited alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles.

What is Affie Ellis's Dem Platform score?

Affie Ellis has a 41% Dem Platform score for 2024. Across 2 years rated, Affie Ellis's lifetime average is 42%.

Where does Affie Ellis serve?

Sen. Affie Ellis (R-WY-8) represents the 8th District in the Wyoming State Senate as a Republican.

Institute for Legislative Analysis logo

Let's build a platform together!

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Build Your Own Platform
  • Methodology

Resources

  • Data Sources
  • Report Correction

Contact

  • Contact Page
© 2023 - 2026 Institute for Legislative Advocacy. All Rights Reserved.
Open Options