WYOMING — Governor Mark Gordon has proclaimed Feb. 1 as “Unclaimed Property Day,” in order to highlight the $350 million in unclaimed property that has been turned over to the Wyoming State Treasurer’s Office.

According to a Wednesday press release from the Treasurer’s Office, the designation is to help spread the word across the state that these properties — money, stock and mutual fund shares, and contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes — are being held for their rightful owner. Those who want to see if they are owed any property are encouraged to search the state’s online database.

“Returning unclaimed property to its rightful owners is about basic fairness and good government,” Gordon said via news release. “This proclamation highlights our responsibility to protect what belongs to the people of Wyoming and ensure it finds its way home.”

The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators says that nearly one in seven U.S. residents is owed unclaimed property. More than $4 billion was returned by all states over the last year.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.