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4w ago

Utah Enacts First-in-Nation Ban on LGBTQ+ Pride Flags in Public Schools and Government Buildings

Governor Spencer Cox allowed the law to take effect without his signature as Salt Lake City protests and Sundance Film Festival relocates to Colorado.

Overview

  • Utah's HB77 bans the display of LGBTQ+ pride flags and other non-approved flags in public schools and government buildings, effective May 7, 2025.
  • The law imposes a $500 daily fine for violations and permits only specific flags, including the U.S. flag, state flag, and military flags.
  • Governor Spencer Cox expressed concerns about the law's scope but allowed it to proceed, citing a likely veto override by the Republican-controlled legislature.
  • Salt Lake City has responded with nightly rainbow light displays on government buildings, and city attorneys are exploring legal options.
  • The Sundance Film Festival announced its move to Boulder, Colorado, citing ethos and equity values, intensifying the cultural and economic impact of the law.