Workplace Issues in Utah
Key Utah Law
Utah Code Section 34A-5-106 (Utah Antidiscrimination Act)
The Utah Antidiscrimination Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, sex, pregnancy, age (40+), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Utah added sexual orientation and gender identity to its anti-discrimination law in 2015 — a notable step for the state. It applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Utah
Utah Agencies & Resources
Utah Labor Commission — Antidiscrimination and Labor Division (UALD)
Investigates employment discrimination complaints and wage claims. File within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
EEOC Phoenix District Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Utah workers.
Utah Labor Commission — Wage Claim
Handles wage claims for unpaid wages, final pay, and overtime violations in Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Utah protect sexual orientation in employment?
Yes. Utah added sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under the Utah Antidiscrimination Act in 2015 — relatively early for a conservative-leaning state. Workers in Utah have both state and federal (Bostock v. Clayton County) protection against employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Utah?
Workers have 180 days from the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the Utah Labor Commission's Antidiscrimination and Labor Division. EEOC dual-filing extends the federal window to 300 days. After investigation, workers may request a right-to-sue notice to file in court.
What is Utah's minimum wage?
Utah's minimum wage follows the federal floor of $7.25 per hour. Utah has not enacted a higher state minimum wage. Workers earning below $7.25 per hour may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division.
What is Utah's Right to Work law?
Utah is a Right to Work state, meaning employees cannot be required to join a union or pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment. This applies to both union and non-union workplaces. Workers retain the right to form and join unions, but union membership cannot be made compulsory.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in Utah?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.