Striking a blow against political activism in taxpayer-funded spaces, Utah has become the first state in America to ban LGBTQ pride flags from government buildings and public schools.
The groundbreaking legislation, which takes effect May 7, imposes $500 daily fines for violations while still permitting American and state flags.
Utah’s Republican-led legislature passed HB 77, which was sponsored by State Representative Trevor Lee and specifically targets pride flags.
HB 77 also establishes clear boundaries for what symbols can be displayed on government property.
The new law permits only certain flags, including the U.S. flag, state flags, and flags serving educational purposes.
The state auditor will enforce these regulations, imposing substantial financial penalties for non-compliance.
This represents a significant victory for parents concerned about political indoctrination in schools and citizens who believe government buildings should remain neutral spaces.
This balanced approach ensures that divisive political messaging is removed from public spaces.
The legislation also prohibits political flags promoting specific candidates or parties, creating consistency across all ideological spectrums.
Utah’s bold stance has already inspired similar legislative efforts across the nation, with Arizona, Alaska, Florida, North Carolina, Alabama, and Idaho considering comparable measures.
This growing movement reflects Americans’ increasing frustration with government institutions promoting political agendas rather than focusing on their core responsibilities.
JUST IN: đşđ¸đłď¸âđ Utah becomes first US state to ban LGBTQ+ pride flags in all government buildings and public schools. pic.twitter.com/gX1QKrsTtE
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) March 29, 2025
Ultimately, Governor Spencer Cox allowed the bill to become law without his signature.
“As tired as Utahns are of politically divisive symbols, I think they are also tired of culture war bills that don’t solve the problems they intend to fix,” he said.
Despite allowing the bill to become law, Governor Cox expressed reservations, suggesting it might not achieve its intended goals.
However, many conservative lawmakers and constituents disagree, viewing the legislation as an important step toward restoring neutrality in public institutions and protecting children from politicized environments.
Predictably, left-wing organizations like the ACLU of Utah and Equality Utah have voiced opposition and are reportedly considering litigation.
Meanwhile, Salt Lake City officials, representing Utah’s most liberal area, have protested by illuminating buildings with rainbow lights.
The move highlights a key loophole in the law, which does not restrict other political symbols like posters or lighting displays.
The legislation has already driven the Sundance Film Festival to flee Utah. The festival has announced its relocation to Colorado, with reports indicating the flag ban influenced this decision.
The festival organizers cited concerns about maintaining their “ethos and equity values” and providing a “welcoming environment.”
Utah’s approach differs from Idaho’s narrower school-only restrictions and goes further than measures being considered in Florida.
This thorough stance demonstrates Utah’s commitment to ensuring all government spaces remain free from political activism, regardless of the cause or ideology being promoted.
The law represents a significant step toward reclaiming public institutions as neutral spaces that serve all citizens equally rather than platforms for advancing particular political agendas.
