SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Following intense debate, Utah lawmakers passed a controversial bill Thursday that would prohibit the display of Pride flags in public schools and government buildings. The decision came just before the 2025 Legislative Session wrapped up.
House Bill 77, titled “Flag Display Amendments,” cleared the Senate in the morning of March 6 and later received approval from the House. The legislation now awaits action from Governor Spencer Cox, who will decide whether to sign it into law or issue a veto.
Aiming for “Neutrality” in Government Spaces
Supporters of the bill, including Sen. Daniel McCay (R-Riverton), argue that restricting certain flags will keep classrooms and public offices free from political messaging.
“This issue was debated last session and remains a topic of concern. The goal is to ensure that government spaces and schools remain neutral,” McCay stated.
Since its introduction at the start of the legislative session, the bill has undergone eight amendments. A ninth proposal, introduced by Sen. Stephanie Pitcher (D-Millcreek), sought to exempt government buildings from the restrictions. Pitcher contended that such a measure could lead to legal challenges against the state. However, this amendment was ultimately rejected.
What Flags Are Allowed?
The bill provides clear guidelines on which flags can be displayed in public schools and government offices. Permitted flags include:
- National flags of any country
- Flags representing universities and colleges
- Military branch flags
- Olympic flags
Notably, the bill excludes flags representing the LGBTQ+ community. Rep. Trevor Lee (R-West Jordan), one of the bill’s sponsors, previously stated that the legislation explicitly bans Pride flags in schools and initially included a provision allowing parents to sue school districts that did not comply. That provision has since been removed, and instead, the bill now assigns the state auditor to investigate reported violations. Schools or government offices found in violation of the law could face a $500 daily fine per infraction.
Impact on Pride Celebrations
Concerns have arisen over how the bill could impact LGBTQ+ visibility in public spaces. Senate leaders clarified that the law would not prevent individuals from carrying Pride flags at public events such as the annual Utah Pride Festival at Salt Lake City’s Library Square. However, the legislation would prohibit the display of Pride flags on or inside the library building itself.
In response, the Utah Pride Center condemned the measure, stating that it attempts to erase LGBTQ+ representation.
“Our right to gather, celebrate, and be visible in public spaces is not up for debate,” the organization said in a statement. “The Utah Pride Festival and Parade will continue as planned. We will march. We will celebrate. We will take up space, as we always have. Now is the time to come together.”
With the bill now awaiting the governor’s decision, LGBTQ+ advocates and opponents of the measure are watching closely to see whether it will be signed into law or blocked .
