Utah becomes the first state to ban LGBTQ+ Pride flags, until action, and also ban political flags, such as the president Donald Trump’s The slogan, “Make America great again.”
Republican state Gov. Spencer Cox announced that he allowed the ban on unauthorized flag displays to become law without his signature. Although he continues to have serious concerns about the policy, the governor chose not to reject the proposal, as the Republican-controlled legislature could overturn his veto.
The ban will come into effect on May 7, when state or local government buildings will be fined $500 a day to display any flag other than the U.S. flag, i.e. Utah flagmilitary flags or a few other persons approved by lawmakers.
Former Republican representative. Family said
Utah became the first state to ban LGBTQ+ Pride Flags from flying in government buildings and schools. (AP)
The law will prohibit political flags that support candidates or parties, including Maga flags.
The new law could contradict the state and its largest city, Salt Lake City. Urban buildings in cities usually commemorate Pride Month every June by displaying flags celebrating their LGBTQ+ population.
Since the bill was sent to Cox’s desk in protest of legislation, local leaders in Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County have illuminated the city and county buildings with rainbow lights every night.
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The law will prohibit political flags that support candidates or parties, including Maga flags. (Getty Image)
The office of Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said their attorneys are reviewing the law, but the city has not yet detailed what it will do once the law takes effect.
Sponsors of the bill, Rep. Trevor Lee and Sen. Dan McCay, are both Republicans, whose measures aim to encourage “political neutrality” among teachers and other government employees.
Opponents argue that law attempts to root LGBTQ+ expression and remove authority from towns that are politically inconsistent with politics Republican majority in the Legislature.
Cox said in a letter to legislative leaders that his decision was his “basic intention” to agree to the bill, even if classrooms are politically neutral, but think it is too far away in restricting local government. The governor also stressed that because the law focuses on flags in a narrow sense, other political displays, such as posters or lighting, are not prohibited.
Gov. Spencer Cox said he chose not to reject the proposal because the Republican-controlled legislature could overturn his veto. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
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“For our LGBTQ community, I know the recent legislation has been difficult,” Cox said.
“Politics can sometimes be a blood movement, and I know we’ve already had a disagreement,” the governor continued. “I hope you know I love and thank you, I thank you for being part of our state. I know these words may be empty for many of you, but please know, I mean sincerely.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
