Utah Bill Aims to Protect Campus Guest Speakers

Legislation would prevent colleges from restricting speech on campuses after backlash over banned word list.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Utah Legislature is considering a new bill that would prohibit colleges and universities in the state from restricting the speech of guest speakers on campus. This comes after the legislature was previously blamed for a list of banned words at the University of Utah, which sparked controversy over free speech issues.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation is part of a broader debate over free speech on college campuses, with some arguing that universities have become too restrictive while others say certain speech can create hostile environments. The new bill aims to ensure open dialogue, but critics worry it could lead to the amplification of hateful or extreme views.

The details

The bill, sponsored by Republican state Senator John Johnson, would prevent public colleges and universities from disinviting speakers or otherwise restricting their ability to speak on campus based on the content of their speech. It comes after the University of Utah faced backlash last year for a list of banned words that included terms like "illegal alien" and "male." The university said the list was intended as a guide, not a mandate, but the incident sparked accusations that the state legislature was interfering with free speech.

  • The Utah Legislature is currently considering the new bill.
  • Last year, the University of Utah faced controversy over a list of banned words on campus.

The players

John Johnson

A Republican state Senator in Utah who is sponsoring the new bill to protect campus guest speakers.

University of Utah

A public university in Utah that faced backlash last year over a list of banned words on campus, which some saw as an infringement on free speech.

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What they’re saying

“We must protect the free exchange of ideas on our college campuses, even if some find the views expressed uncomfortable or offensive.”

— Senator John Johnson, Bill Sponsor (Utah State Legislature)

“While we want to foster inclusive environments, restricting speech can set a dangerous precedent and undermine the very purpose of higher education.”

— University of Utah President (University of Utah)

What’s next

The Utah Legislature is expected to vote on the bill in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This debate over free speech on college campuses reflects broader tensions in society about the limits of acceptable discourse, with reasonable people disagreeing on where to draw the line between protecting marginalized groups and upholding principles of open dialogue.