A recent study by the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division shows that July 2024 was the highest month ever recorded in the Cowboy State for sales and use tax revenues.

Sales and use tax revenues totaled $94.7 million in July, up $4.9 million (+5.4%) from July 2023.

Wyoming first introduced a general sales tax in 1935. Since then, the rate has risen to 4% in some parts of the state, with local sales taxes also being added.

15 of the 23 districts recorded an increase in revenue compared to the previous year.

Niobrara County saw the largest increase in revenue, up 176.5% from July of last year. Platte County saw the largest decrease, at 24.8%—but Niobrara’s contribution to the state’s total revenue is only about 1%.

Washakie County accounts for 2% of total state sales and use tax contributions, and that amount increased a remarkable 105.2% over the previous year.

As for industry, construction revenues increased by 120.9%. The mining sector suffered the most, with a decline of 16.3% compared to July 2023.

In the transportation and utilities sectors, there was a 37.8% increase nationwide since July 2023, but in the education and health sectors, sales and excise tax revenues fell by 8.6%.

Natrona County contributes 10% of the statewide increase, increasing its sales and use tax revenues by 4.8% this year. Laramie County contributes 15% overall, increasing by 7.3%.

Other highlights from the quarterly reports show that employment in mining is still declining compared to pre-pandemic levels: 3,200 jobs have been lost since February 2020.

In July, an average of 13 oil rigs were active, while the number of conventional gas rigs was two. A year ago, there were 17 oil rigs and three conventional gas rigs.