Utah Legislature Passes Bill Banning Collective Bargaining for Public Sector Unions
The bill, which awaits Governor Spencer Cox's decision, faces strong opposition from unions representing teachers, firefighters, and other public employees.
- The Utah Legislature has passed HB267, a bill that prohibits public sector unions from engaging in collective bargaining, with votes of 42-32 in the House and 16-13 in the Senate.
- If signed into law, Utah would join states like North Carolina and South Carolina in enacting some of the most restrictive labor laws for public employees in the U.S.
- Supporters argue the bill will save taxpayer money and allow for more direct communication between employers and employees, bypassing union intermediaries.
- Opponents, including the Utah Education Association and firefighter unions, warn the legislation undermines workers' rights and endangers public safety by limiting advocacy for better wages and working conditions.
- Governor Spencer Cox has not yet indicated whether he will sign or veto the bill, and unions are urging him to reject the measure, citing his past support for teachers and public employees.
The Salt Lake Tribune 
Americans for Tax Reform 