Wyoming – Mark Gordon signed Enrolled Act No. 29, also known as House Bill 126 or the Human Heartbeat Act, into law while expressing concerns about the measure’s long-term legal durability.
In a signing letter addressed to Chip Neiman, the governor said the legislation reflects deeply held moral convictions about protecting unborn life, convictions he said he personally shares. However, he warned that Wyoming continues to face legal uncertainty surrounding abortion policy following the recent State v. Johnson decision, which removed certain abortion restrictions in the state.
“Life is sacred,” Gordon said, adding that while the intentions behind the Human Heartbeat Act are moral and sincere, he believes the law will likely face legal challenges. He said the measure may return the state to ongoing litigation over abortion policy.
The governor said he has repeatedly called for a long-term policy solution that could require either a constitutional amendment or carefully crafted legislation capable of addressing the Wyoming Supreme Court’s interpretation of the state constitution.
Although he signed the bill, Gordon said he remains concerned that the measure may not provide the durable solution lawmakers hoped for and could instead lead to additional court battles.
He reiterated his support for protecting unborn children while encouraging lawmakers to pursue solutions that can withstand constitutional scrutiny and provide lasting policy for the state.
