Utah Councilmember Challenges State Flag Ban with Pride Display

Centerville City Councilmember Cheylynn Hayman insists she will continue displaying an LGBTQ+ pride flag in defiance of Utah’s ban, citing First Amendment protections. Despite an inquiry by state auditors, Hayman is resolute in her decision to uphold her individual rights.

Flag Ban and Legal Dispute

In April 2025, shortly after Utah became the first state to ban unsanctioned flags, including pride banners, at schools and government buildings, Hayman started displaying a small rainbow pride flag during council sessions. The Utah State Auditor notified her of multiple complaints received regarding her support shown on the city council dais. The state statute prohibits government entities and public-school employees from displaying unauthorized flags.

Hayman received a letter on May 22 addressing alleged violations and seeking her response. Despite this, she plans to continue flying the flag and potentially initiate legal action against Utah to protect her free speech rights.

“If the state auditor concludes that my city violates the flag-banning law due to my individual display of a pride flag, yes, I will personally initiate a lawsuit against the state of Utah to protect my right to free speech,” Hayman stated.

Hayman’s Legal Argument

Hayman, an attorney specializing in employment law, argues that the law applies only to government entities and employees of public schools, not elected representatives like herself. She contends the law does not restrict publicly elected officials from exercising their First Amendment rights on government property.

Her response highlights that Section 704 does not prevent elected officials from displaying pride flags as a form of individual expression, separate from the entities they represent.

Contradictory Views on the Ban’s Scope

Representative Trevor Lee, who sponsored Utah’s flag ban, contends that the law applies to all local government entities, including city councils. He argues that using government property and authority for a political statement is exactly what the bill aims to prevent. Lee emphasizes that municipal entities may only display authorized flags such as the U.S. flag, state flag, or military banners.

Lee asserts the law is not about stifling personal speech but preventing officials from promoting partisan causes on taxpayer-funded platforms. This, according to Lee, undermines trust, divides communities, and signifies biased endorsements.

Potential Legal Consequences

Should auditors find Hayman in violation, she would have 30 days to correct the violation or face fines. Complaints regarding the flag are being reviewed by the Utah State Auditor’s Office.

Hayman plans to attend future council meetings and display the pride flag, hoping to encourage debate on the legislation’s wisdom and drive positive change. She intends to keep her actions going until the law changes.

Messages seeking comment from Governor Spencer Cox have not been returned. Centerville city officials await the auditor’s review before speculating on outcomes, assuring cooperation with state processes.