Wyoming’s fiscal landscape is set for a new chapter as Governor Mark Gordon officially announced the appointment of Bret Fanning as the fresh director for the Wyoming Department of Revenue, marking a significant transition in the state’s financial leadership.
Fanning steps into this crucial role, succeeding Brenda Henson, who concluded her tenure earlier this year after serving diligently as director since 2021. This leadership change comes at a pivotal time for Wyoming’s economic oversight, ensuring continuity in vital state functions.
Prior to his elevation, Bret Fanning demonstrated considerable expertise within the very department he now leads, specifically as the administrator of the Wyoming Department of Revenue’s Excise Tax Division since 2022. In this capacity, he was instrumental in overseeing the statewide administration of a diverse array of tax types, including sales, use, lodging, nicotine products, prepaid wireless services, and even wind generation.
His extensive background also includes a decade-long period from 2011 to 2022, during which Fanning was deeply involved in both conducting and meticulously reviewing taxpayer audits for the Wyoming Department of Audit’s Excise Tax Division. This hands-on experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of tax compliance and financial oversight within the state.
A true local, Bret Fanning hails from Cheyenne, grounding him deeply within the community he now serves in a prominent capacity. His academic achievements include earning bachelor’s degrees from the University of Northern Colorado, further complemented by a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree obtained from the University of Wyoming, underscoring his strong educational foundation in business and finance.
Governor Gordon expressed strong confidence in the new appointee, noting in an official news release, “Bret’s experience in the Excise Tax Division and familiarity with revenue policy ensure this will be a smooth transition.” This endorsement highlights the Governor’s belief in Fanning’s capability to seamlessly navigate the complexities of state finance and ensure stable governance.
The Governor also extended his gratitude to Matt Sachse for his dedicated service in an interim capacity following Director Henson’s retirement, acknowledging the interim leadership that maintained stability during the transition period.
The Wyoming Department of Revenue, under Fanning’s new leadership, is a multifaceted entity responsible for critical state operations. Its purview includes the administration and collection of both mineral and excise taxes, the meticulous valuation of property across the state, and the comprehensive oversight of the wholesale distribution of alcoholic beverages, alongside the enforcement of liquor control laws.
The department is meticulously structured into several key divisions to manage its extensive responsibilities: the Administrative Services Division, the Excise Tax Division, the Property Tax Division, the Mineral Tax Division, and the Liquor Division, each playing a vital role in Wyoming’s financial infrastructure.
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