House passes bill requiring schools to allow religious and modest uniform accommodations in athletics

Representative Perucci presented House Bill 163 to ensure students may wear religious headwear or make modest-uniform accommodations while participating in K–12 athletics. She cited examples of students who were told to choose between practicing their religion and participating in sports, and framed the bill as restoring the ability to both observe religion and play sports.

Floor questioning covered many sports and safety scenarios. Representative Thurston asked whether the bill addressed "sexualization of sport" and whether students would be able to choose more modest uniforms; Perucci replied the bill covers religious purposes and "personal standards of modesty" and that schools should be empowered to accommodate such choices. Representative Albrecht raised questions about helmets and headwear; the sponsor said appropriate accommodations (for example, wearing a tight-fitting hijab under a helmet) are feasible and coaches would ensure safety. Representative Lund confirmed the bill references existing Utah code for a legal definition of religion.

The House recorded passage with 74 yea votes and 1 nay. Sponsor Perucci said the bill provides a remedy for students previously told they could not practice their religion while participating in athletic activities. The floor debate focused on balancing safety, uniform standards, and religious accommodation; implementation details (for example, when schools must provide compliant colors/materials) were described as operational matters for local education agencies and coaches to manage.