First Amendment

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Like the Constitution’s framers, the ACLU maintains that freedom of speech and expression, including the right to protest and petition the government, are fundamental to a democratic society. So, the ACLU of Utah is dedicated to protecting and to expanding the First Amendment freedoms of expression, association, and inquiry.

The Latest

Press Release
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Comment on "Mormon Stories" Amicus Brief

Trademark law is a shield to defend against consumer confusion—not a sword to attack speech protected by the First Amendment
Issue Areas: First Amendment
Court Cases: Amicus Brief in INTELLECTUAL RESERVE, INC. et al., v. OPEN STORIES FOUNDATION, et al.
News & Commentary
ACLU UT Banned Book club graphic.

37 Books Utah Politicians Don’t Want You to Read

Join the ACLU of Utah’s Banned Book Club by reading these 37 books facing bans and challenges in Utah schools.
Press Release
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Comment on Attorney Fees in Drag Stars v. St. George

When we win in court, attorney’s fees help the ACLU of Utah continue litigating cases like this to protect First Amendment rights.
Issue Areas: First Amendment, LGBTQ+ Equality
Court Cases: Southern Utah Drag Stars v. City of St. George
Press Release
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Let Utah Read Event 2/13 Brings Authors and the Community Together to Defend Books

Public Urged to Help Defeat New Law that Would Further Censor Books in Schools
Issue Areas: First Amendment, State Advocacy, Student & Youth Rights
Court Cases: Vonnegut v. Utah
Legislation
Mar 13, 2026

HB517 (Sensitive Materials)

HB517 would have made it harder for guardians, students, educators, and authors to sue to protect their First Amendment rights, as it attempted to extend government immunity to state and local officials (including school districts), prohibit class actions, and allow school districts to require guardians to sign arbitration agreements.  
Status: Victory: did not pass
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Mar 13, 2026

HB197 (School Materials Amendments)

HB197 sought to expand on the prior sensitive materials law, HB29, passed in 2024. This bill would have required schools to use automated filters in screening databases and other online content and to immediately ban access to materials upon a “plausible” complaint.  
Status: Victory: did not pass
Position: Oppose