SALT LAKE CITY – A coalition of public labor unions in Utah is taking action to overturn a newly enacted law that prohibits collective bargaining for public sector unions. The law, H.B. 267 “Public Sector Labor Union Amendments,” sparked significant controversy before it was signed by Governor Spencer Cox on February 14.
In response, union leaders and advocates have launched an initiative to repeal the law through a referendum. On March 5, the coalition announced its intent to file official paperwork with the Lieutenant Governor’s Office and introduced a campaign website, “Protect Utah Workers.” However, their initial filing was rejected, with officials stating they must wait until the legislative session concludes on March 8 before submitting the referendum application.
If approved, the coalition will need to gather 140,748 signatures from registered voters across Utah within a strict 40-day timeframe. This figure represents 8% of the state’s active voters, with at least 15 of Utah’s 29 senate districts required to meet the same 8% threshold. If successful, the issue would be placed on the ballot, allowing Utahns to vote on whether to keep or repeal the law.
Renee Pinkney, president of the Utah Education Association, emphasized the need for public input on the controversial measure. “Legislators and the governor ignored overwhelming opposition to H.B. 267. We believe Utah voters deserve the opportunity to have their voices heard,” Pinkney said.
H.B. 267, which prevents public sector unions from negotiating employment terms with government employers, has been a focal point of heated legislative debate and public protests. Lawmakers initially discussed a compromise that would have allowed collective bargaining if a majority of employees voted in favor. However, that proposal was later abandoned in favor of a complete ban on union negotiations.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Jordan Teuscher (R-South Jordan), acknowledged the repeal effort but believes the coalition faces an uphill battle. “Getting a referendum on the ballot is a significant challenge,” he noted. Lawmakers had anticipated the possibility of a repeal effort and passed an additional measure outlining how the law would take effect if a referendum moved forward.
Despite the challenges, Pinkney expressed confidence in the coalition’s ability to meet the signature requirement. “We have a strong plan in place, and we’re committed to ensuring Utahns have a say in this critical issue,” she said.
With the legislative session set to conclude this week, the coalition is preparing to move forward with signature collection in hopes of bringing the issue directly to the voters .
