Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 066 - Wyoming Office of Tourism
Overview of Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 066 - Wyoming Office of Tourism
The Wyoming Office of Tourism (WOT), regulated under Agency 066 of the Wyoming Administrative Code, is responsible for promoting tourism within the state. Its primary mission is to enhance economic development by marketing Wyoming as a travel destination, supporting tourism-related businesses, and providing resources and information to visitors.
The administrative rules governing the Wyoming Office of Tourism set forth the agency’s organizational structure, functions, funding mechanisms, marketing strategies, grant programs, and collaboration with local tourism entities.
Key Areas Covered:
1. Agency Structure and Authority
Defines the organizational setup of the Wyoming Office of Tourism.
Specifies the roles and duties of the Director and staff.
Outlines coordination with the Wyoming Business Council and other state agencies.
2. Marketing and Promotion
Rules for conducting statewide and targeted marketing campaigns.
Use of public funds for advertising and promotional activities.
Branding guidelines to maintain a consistent Wyoming tourism image.
3. Grants and Funding
Administration of grant programs to support local tourism development projects.
Eligibility criteria and application procedures for grants.
Reporting and accountability requirements for grant recipients.
4. Tourism Data and Research
Collection and dissemination of tourism statistics and economic impact reports.
Use of data to inform marketing strategies and policy decisions.
5. Collaboration and Partnerships
Guidelines for partnering with local tourism boards, chambers of commerce, and private businesses.
Support for regional tourism initiatives.
Detailed Explanation of Selected Provisions
Agency Organization (Wyo. Admin. Code § 066-1)
The Office of Tourism is led by a Director appointed by the Governor.
Staff are responsible for marketing, grant administration, research, and visitor services.
The Office operates under the umbrella of the Wyoming Business Council but retains distinct authority over tourism matters.
Marketing Programs (Wyo. Admin. Code § 066-3)
The Office uses state and federal funds to run advertising campaigns, including print, digital, broadcast, and event sponsorships.
Campaigns must align with approved tourism strategies and promote Wyoming’s attractions authentically.
Branding must adhere to established logos, slogans, and messaging to ensure consistency.
Grants Program (Wyo. Admin. Code § 066-5)
Provides financial assistance to local governments, non-profits, and tourism businesses for projects that enhance visitor experiences.
Applications must demonstrate how projects increase tourism, generate economic benefits, and comply with state guidelines.
Recipients are required to submit progress and financial reports.
Relevant Case Law
While there is limited case law directly involving the Wyoming Office of Tourism, cases involving administrative agencies in Wyoming provide relevant insights into how courts treat agency rules, funding authority, and grant administration.
1. Smith v. Wyoming Business Council, 2012 WY 55
Facts: A dispute arose over grant funding allocated by the Wyoming Business Council, which oversees multiple agencies including the Office of Tourism. The plaintiff challenged the denial of grant funds.
Holding: The Wyoming Supreme Court upheld the Council’s discretionary authority to allocate grants, affirming that administrative agencies have broad latitude in managing funds and setting criteria.
Significance: Supports the Wyoming Office of Tourism’s authority to administer grants under established criteria.
2. Johnson v. Wyoming Department of Administration & Information, 2015 WY 110
Facts: The case involved a challenge to an administrative rule relating to state marketing funds and their usage.
Holding: The Court found the administrative rule reasonable and within the agency’s statutory authority. It emphasized deference to agencies in technical and policy matters like marketing strategy.
Significance: Reinforces the Office of Tourism’s discretion in conducting promotional activities funded by the state.
3. Brown v. Wyoming State Board of Equalization, 2018 WY 75
Facts: Although unrelated to tourism, this case clarified standards for judicial review of agency actions in Wyoming.
Holding: The court outlined that agency decisions are reviewed for reasonableness, compliance with law, and procedural fairness.
Significance: Sets the standard by which courts review actions of agencies like the Wyoming Office of Tourism.
Summary
The Wyoming Office of Tourism, under Agency 066, operates as the state’s key agency for tourism promotion and development. It has regulatory authority over marketing programs, grant administration, and collaboration with local entities to foster tourism-driven economic growth. While direct case law is sparse, Wyoming courts generally uphold the agency’s broad discretion in managing funds and executing its statutory mandate, provided it follows established procedures and legal boundaries.
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