In Utah, a law banning unsanctioned flag displays took effect this week, while in Idaho, a law barring government buildings from displaying any flags except those on a short list—including the U.S. flag, military branch flags, and official government entity flags—took effect April 3. A separate ban with some exemptions for schools takes effect July 1.

Salt Lake City created new city flag designs incorporating pride symbols, and Boise retroactively designated the traditional pride flag as one of its official city flags. Both cities did so in defiance of state laws restricting such displays.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall stated that her intent is 'to represent our city's values and honor our dear diverse residents who make up this beautiful city and the legacy of pain and progress that they have endured.' The move is seen as a response to state laws perceived as erasing LGBTQ+ expression.

Some cities, like Bonners Ferry, have creatively interpreted exemptions in the flag law. The Bonners Ferry City Council passed a resolution designating every day of the year a 'special occasion' to allow the Canadian flag to be flown year-round as a sign of cross-border friendship.

Supporters argue the laws encourage political neutrality among teachers and government employees, while opponents, including many LGBTQ+ advocates, see the laws and the cities' responses as part of a larger national debate over inclusion, representation, and the authority of local governance versus state legislatures.