UT · Civil Rights & Disputes

Civil Rights & Disputes in Utah

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Utah Law

Utah Antidiscrimination Act — Utah Code Section 34A-5-101 et seq.

Utah's Antidiscrimination Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age (40+), disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

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Procedural Details in Utah

Utah's Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD) investigates discrimination complaints. Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Utah covers employers with 15 or more employees. Utah added sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes in employment in 2015 through a bipartisan "Utah Compromise" bill, balancing civil rights and religious liberty protections. Utah does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. The defamation statute of limitations in Utah is one year under Utah Code Section 78B-2-302. Utah courts apply the zone-of-danger test for negligent infliction of emotional distress.

Utah Agencies & Resources

Utah Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD)

State agency investigating employment discrimination complaints under the Utah Antidiscrimination Act.

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EEOC Phoenix District Office (Utah)

Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Utah workers.

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Utah State Bar — Lawyer Referral

Referral service for civil rights attorneys in Utah.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Utah protect sexual orientation and gender identity in employment?

Yes. Utah added sexual orientation and gender identity to the Antidiscrimination Act in 2015 through a bipartisan bill. However, the law also includes specific religious liberty protections for religious organizations. Coverage applies to employers with 15 or more employees.

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Utah?

Complaints must be filed with UALD within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Utah has a worksharing agreement with the EEOC.

Does Utah have an anti-SLAPP statute?

No. Utah does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants rely on standard motion practice.

What is the defamation statute of limitations in Utah?

Defamation claims in Utah must be filed within one year under Utah Code Section 78B-2-302.

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026