Anti-Union Groups Decline to Block Collective Bargaining Referendum in Utah
In a significant development in Utah’s labor landscape, anti-public union groups have announced they will not obstruct the upcoming referendum aimed at overturning House Bill 267 (HB267), which bans collective bargaining for public sector unions. This decision paves the way for Utah voters to have the final say on the contentious legislation.
HB267, signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox in February 2025, prohibits public employers from engaging in collective bargaining agreements with unions representing teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public employees. The law has been met with strong opposition from labor unions and their supporters, who argue that it undermines workers’ rights and erodes workplace protections.
In response to the legislation, a coalition of labor organizations initiated a referendum campaign to place the issue on the 2026 ballot. To succeed, they must gather over 140,000 signatures from registered voters within a 30-day period. The decision by anti-union groups not to challenge the referendum process removes a potential legal hurdle, allowing the campaign to proceed without further obstruction.
The Utah Education Association (UEA), the state’s largest public education employees’ union, has been at the forefront of the opposition. UEA President Dr. Sara Jones emphasized the importance of collective bargaining in advocating for educators and students, stating, "It’s clear from the presentation that the intent of the bill is to diminish the UEA." (abc4.com)
The forthcoming referendum offers Utahns an opportunity to voice their opinions on the future of public sector unions and collective bargaining rights in the state. As the signature collection process begins, all eyes will be on the campaign’s progress and the broader implications for labor relations in Utah.
Utah’s Collective Bargaining Ban Faces Referendum Challenge:
- Utah labor unions launch referendum to repeal HB267 ban on collective bargaining
- As collective bargaining referendum effort gains momentum, expert breaks down state process | KSL.com
- Unions consider strikes, referendums on bill banning collective bargaining
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