After days of intense debate, the Utah Senate on Thursday approved a contentious bill that would prohibit public labor unions from engaging in collective bargaining.
House Bill 267, titled “Public Sector Labor Union Amendments,” narrowly passed with a 16-13 vote, just clearing the 15-vote threshold needed. The bill now moves back to the House for final approval before heading to Governor Spencer Cox’s desk for consideration.
The legislation has sparked widespread public demonstrations and political division throughout the legislative session. Lawmakers briefly considered a compromise that would have allowed collective bargaining if a simple majority of affected employees voted in favor. However, that proposal was ultimately withdrawn, and the original bill, which completely bans public unions from negotiating employment terms, was reinstated.
Under the approved version, current union agreements will remain in effect until they expire, but public employers will be prohibited from negotiating new agreements or modifying existing ones.
Divided Lawmakers and Public Reaction
The vote fell largely along party lines, with all Democratic senators opposing the bill. Seven Republican senators—Ann Millner, Daniel Thatcher, Wayne Harper, Lincoln Fillmore, Ronald Winterton, David Hinkins, and Evan Vickers—also voted against it. The remaining 16 Republicans supported the measure.
Opponents, including the Utah Education Association (UEA), expressed strong disapproval, arguing that the bill undermines the rights of teachers and other public employees. The UEA issued a statement condemning the decision, emphasizing that thousands of public-sector workers voiced opposition to the legislation.
“This bill is both unnecessary and unpopular. Despite overwhelming public feedback, lawmakers have chosen to push forward with legislation that strips educators and public employees of their rights,” the UEA said. The organization also called on Gov. Cox to veto the bill, urging him to stand by his previous statements in support of teachers.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall also voiced opposition, warning that the bill would negatively impact public employees. “This legislation threatens the well-being of frontline workers who provide essential services to our communities. Regardless of this bill, I remain committed to ensuring our city’s employees are treated fairly,” she said.
Supporters Defend the Legislation
Proponents of the bill argue that it will promote fairness in the workplace and protect taxpayer dollars by preventing unions from exerting excessive influence over public policy.
Sen. Kirk Cullimore defended the measure, stating that some public employees feel they lack representation in union negotiations. “This bill ensures that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and that all public employees—not just those in unions—have a voice,” he said.
Americans for Prosperity-Utah (AFP-UT), a conservative advocacy group, praised the bill’s passage. The organization criticized teachers’ unions for opposing school choice reforms and claimed the legislation would prevent unions from having undue power over government operations.
“For too long, public sector unions have dictated policies that do not align with taxpayer interests,” AFP-UT Director Kevin Greene stated. “This reform ensures that Utahns’ hard-earned tax dollars serve the public, not unaccountable unions.”
What’s Next?
With the bill now awaiting the governor’s decision, attention turns to Gov. Cox, who has previously expressed support for public educators. As opposition groups continue to call for a veto, the coming days will determine whether Utah officially enacts one of the most restrictive labor policies in the country.
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