Controversial flag bill becomes law in Utah without governor’s signature

• A controversial flag bill, HB 77, has passed in Utah. It prohibits unauthorized flags on government property, including public schools. Authorized flags include the American, Utah, and U.S. military flags, along with others related to states, countries, and colleges.
• Critics argue the bill targets the LGBTQ+ community, while supporters say it protects students’ rights.
• Governor Spencer Cox expressed concerns but did not veto the bill. The law takes effect on May 7, and non-compliant buildings could face fines.

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A new controversial flag bill has passed in Utah without the governor’s signature.

The bill, HB 77, prohibits the display of unauthorized flags on government property and buildings, including public schools.

Authorized Flags Include:

• The American Flag
• Utah State Flag
• Flags of Other Countries, States, or Cities
• U.S. Military Flags
• College Flags
• Other Flags as Approved

Corinne Johnson, president of Utah Parents United, spoke with local KSTU News and argued that the bill is essential for protecting students’ rights.

“Our state constitution states that every child is able to get a free and non-sectarian education,” Johnson said.

However, critics of the law argue that it targets the LGBTQ+ community.

The Utah Pride Center released a statement after the bill passed, saying, “This is more than just a policy decision—it is a deliberate attempt to erase LGBTQIA+ visibility from the public sphere. It is government overreach at its worst, stripping cities, counties, and schools of their right to support and affirm their diverse communities.”

The bill’s sponsor, Representative Trevor Lee, said Pride flags and others, including Confederate flags or Nazi flags, could be used during teacher instruction if they are related to the curriculum.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox said Thursday night he had “serious concerns” with the bill but would not veto it because the legislature would override the veto.

Government and school buildings that do not comply with the law could face a $500 fine per day. The law is set to go into effect on May 7.