Utah has become the first U.S. state to implement a ban on flying LGBTQ+ pride flags at schools and all government buildings. This law, which will take effect on May 7, was allowed to become official after Utah Governor Spencer Cox did not take action on it by the midnight deadline on Thursday night, thus allowing the bill to pass without his signature.
The legislation, introduced by Republican state Rep. Trevor Lee of Layton, specifically targets the display of pride flags in educational institutions. The law is seen as part of ongoing efforts by some state lawmakers to restrict LGBTQ+ symbols and messages in public spaces.
Despite allowing the bill to become law, Governor Cox expressed his appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community in a letter to legislative leaders. He acknowledged that recent legislation has been challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals, stating that politics can be divisive. Cox emphasized that he loves and appreciates the LGBTQ+ community and is grateful for their presence in Utah, though he recognized that his words might not be well-received by everyone.
The timing of this decision coincided with the announcement that the Sundance Film Festival, a major cultural event that had been held in Park City, Utah for over four decades, would be moving its operations to Boulder, Colorado. This move has raised concerns among local supporters of the festival, particularly in the wake of the new law.