Utah has become the first U.S. state to ban the display of LGBTQ+ pride flags at schools and government buildings, setting a national precedent. Governor Spencer Cox allowed the measure to become law without his signature late Thursday, citing concerns over its broad restrictions but acknowledging that a veto would likely be overridden by the Republican-majority legislature. The law, set to take effect on May 7, imposes a $500 daily fine on government buildings displaying unauthorized flags, limiting approved flags to the U.S. flag, the Utah state flag, military flags, and a select few sanctioned by lawmakers. It also prohibits political flags supporting specific candidates or parties.
The decision is expected to heighten tensions with Salt Lake City, home to a large LGBTQ+ community that prominently displays pride flags during Pride Month.
In response, local officials have illuminated the Salt Lake City and County Building in rainbow lights nightly since the bill reached the governor’s desk. City officials are currently reviewing the law’s implications.
In a letter explaining his decision, Cox supported the goal of maintaining political neutrality in classrooms but criticized the law’s focus on flags while allowing other political displays such as posters or lighting. Addressing the LGBTQ+ community, he acknowledged their frustrations and reaffirmed his appreciation for their presence in Utah.
The passage of the law coincided with the Sundance Film Festival’s announcement that it would move from Park City, Utah, to Boulder, Colorado. While festival organizers denied that state politics influenced their decision, they emphasized seeking a “welcoming environment.”
Utah’s law is broader than a similar measure recently passed in Idaho, which only applies to schools.
Idaho lawmakers are now considering an extension of their ban to government buildings, while Florida legislators are advancing a comparable proposal after previous attempts failed.
At the federal level, some agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, have also implemented restrictions on flag displays at their facilities.
