Equality Utah Condemns Unconstitutional Flag Ban HB 77

Today, the Utah Senate passed HB 77, a blatantly unconstitutional bill that bans cities, counties, and public schools from displaying Pride and other community flags. This legislation, seemingly fueled by an ongoing dispute with Salt Lake City, strips away local control and targets the free expression of Utah’s communities. In this political tug-of-war, LGBTQ Utahns have unfairly become collateral damage.

While we secured critical amendments-preserving the right of students and teachers to wear rainbow stickers, pins, and patches in classrooms

—this does not erase the bill’s broader harm. During debate, Senate sponsor Sen. Dan McCay made it clear that HB 77 aims to censor the free speech rights of municipalities statewide, a move that oversteps legislative authority and invites legal scrutiny.

Equality Utah is frustrated by this outcome, but our resolve remains unshaken. We will continue to fight for the rights and visibility of LGBTQ Utahns, supporting efforts to challenge this bill in court and hold the State accountable.

Troy Williams

Executive Director

Marina Lowe

Policy Director