Catherwood LibraryILR School

A new battle is emerging in Utah over HB267, a law that bans collective bargaining for public employees. Labor unions are pushing for a referendum to overturn the measure, arguing it undermines worker rights and was passed despite widespread public opposition. Supporters of the law claim it ensures taxpayer money is not used to benefit unions and promotes direct negotiations between workers and government employers. If unions gather over 140,000 signatures, voters could decide in 2026 whether to repeal the law, but Utah’s strict referendum process and potential opposition from national anti-union groups make the effort an uphill battle. The outcome could have lasting implications for public-sector unions and labor policy in the state.