Volunteers make final push to overturn Utah labor union bill

SALT LAKE CITY — As the deadline approaches, volunteers across Utah are rallying to gather signatures for a ballot referendum aimed at overturning HB267, a controversial labor union bill that passed during the 2025 legislative session.

The bill, which prevents public unions from engaging in collective bargaining, has drawn criticism from educators, firefighters, police officers and other union members, who argue it undermines workers’ rights.

Today, at the Utah Education Association, a steady flow of referendum signature packets was submitted by volunteers to the Protect Utah Workers coalition, and more are expected before the deadline tomorrow.

James Talamantes, a volunteer from West Valley City, was among those at the Utah Education Association delivering signatures. He has been actively collecting signatures for the referendum for weeks. Driven by his family’s involvement in public sector jobs, Talamantes has traveled across the state, passionately explaining the importance of unions to Utahns.

“I’ve met people who dislike unions because they lobby,” said Talamantes. “But I tell them union lobbyists are the only ones advocating for American workers. Corporations and businesses have their own lobbyists — the unions are here for the people.”

To qualify for the ballot referendum, the Protect Utah Workers coalition must gather nearly 141,000 signatures, representing 8% of registered voters across at least 15 counties. The coalition is optimistic about meeting this high threshold.

Michael Evans, a member of the group, expressed confidence in the efforts so far.

“We’ve had an incredible turnout of support,” said Evans. “It’s inspiring to see people step up, finish strong, and make sure the voters — not legislators — have the final say on this issue.”

Jason Perry, Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics, highlighted the challenges of Utah’s referendum process.

“The clock is ticking even right now, so that’s why you start seeing them go to neighborhoods,” Perry told KSL TV in March.

He emphasized the high bar for success, noting that nearly 141,000 signatures must be collected within 30 days after the legislative session ends. Perry also pointed out that successful referendums are rare, with the last one occurring in 2007 against school vouchers.

If successful, the referendum would freeze the law until voters weigh in during the 2026 ballot. However, opposition groups would have 45 days to convince signers to withdraw their support, adding another layer of challenge to the coalition’s efforts.

The coalition believes the referendum is crucial to combating misinformation and ensuring transparency in the legislative process.

“We just want to put this decision in the hands of the people,” Evans said.

For those still wishing to support the cause, signature locations can be found at ProtectUtahWorkers.com.