CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A bill that would allow the selection of University of Wyoming and state community college presidents to be closed to the public has passed the Legislature.

House Bill 223 was fast-tracked through the session in 10 days. It now goes to Gov. Matt Mead who has not indicated whether he will sign the measure.

The bill was proposed after media outlets in the state protested the decision by the UW Board of Trustees to hold a confidential search for a new president to replace retiring President Tom Buchanan.

A judge recently ruled that current law requires that the names of finalists be made public. However, the bill that passed Tuesday would have the new law take effect immediately with the governor's signature, effectively nullifying the court ruling.

More From Laramie Live