Update: The Protect Utah Workers coalition delivered more than 320,000 signatures to county clerks around the state Wednesday, almost certainly sending a law that eliminates collective bargaining for public sector unions to the ballot in 2026. Now, opponents have 45 days to campaign for Utahns to remove their signatures. The state will verify each signature by June 21.
Have you been approached by a volunteer with a Protect Utah Workers petition? Here’s the skinny on the statewide effort to gather 200,000 signatures in 30 days and force a vote on an anti-union law. Plus, how to get involved.
Full disclosure: I myself am volunteering to gather signatures!
What’s the Issue?
Gov. Spencer Cox signed a law that removes collective bargaining rights for public sector employees (i.e. teachers, firefighters).
📈 A recent poll found 80% of Utahns oppose this bill, and 78% hoped the governor would veto it.
What Can Be Done?
Salt Lake City firefighters, the Utah Education Association, and over 2,000 volunteers are gathering signatures to referendum the law. If enough registered voters sign the petition, the law will be put on hold until all Utahns can vote on it next fall. Aka, let the people decide.
Can They Do It?
The process is arduous, and the petition needs signatures from 8% of registered Utah voters across 15 senate districts in just 30 days. The state will verify each signature (much like when you vote). Organizers are shooting for 200,000 signatures to play it safe.
Volunteers Needed
There are 20 days left to gather signatures, and volunteers are hitting the streets as the popularity of labor unions nears an all-time high.
- 🖊️ Find a petition to sign at an event or location near you.
- 📋 Volunteer to gather signatures solo or with a friend.
- 🎉 Host signature gatherers at your business or event.
