Lieutenant Governor issues stay on HB 267 pending voter referendum in Utah

A significant development emerged from the recent government meeting in Utah, where officials discussed the referendum process following the passage of HB 267. The lieutenant governor has issued a stay on the bill, effectively pausing its implementation due to sufficient signatures gathered for a referendum petition.

Under Utah law, citizens dissatisfied with a newly passed bill can initiate a referendum within five days of its passage. To qualify, they must gather signatures from 8% of active voters statewide, as well as 8% from at least 15 of the state's 29 senate districts. This process allows voters to challenge legislation they believe is inappropriate.

As of now, the lieutenant governor has confirmed that the threshold for signatures has been met, which means HB 267 will not take effect on July 1 as originally planned. Instead, the lieutenant governor is expected to certify the petition by June 21, placing the referendum on the ballot for the next general election in November 2026, unless a special election is called sooner.

This pause on HB 267 highlights the power of citizen engagement in Utah's legislative process, allowing voters to have a direct say in laws that affect them. The outcome of the referendum will ultimately determine the fate of the bill, showcasing the dynamic nature of governance in the state.