Utah's hopes for keeping the Sundance Film Festival — a cultural and economic powerhouse — from leaving the state could be derailed by the controversial Pride flag ban bill approved by Utah lawmakers.
Deadline reported Wednesday that the ban has caused “concern” and “slowed” the momentum for Utah keeping the festival, which pumps over $130 million annually into the state economy, from leaving after its current contract ends in 2026.
Gov. Spencer Cox has signaled his intent to sign HB77, which restricts the display of all but approved flags on government property, including LGBTQ+ Pride flags.
According to Deadline, Utah officials and representatives from Sundance participated in a virtual meeting on Tuesday where the Pride flag ban was a topic of discussion.
Rep. Trevor Lee, sponsor of the legislation, dismissed concerns, claiming the flag ban wouldn't impact Utah's chances for retaining Sundance.
"Not at all," Lee insisted to the publication.
Utah lawmakers have allocated $3.5 million in next year's budget to entice the festival to stay in Utah. The potential loss is staggering - The 2024 event brought in a reported $132 million in "total economic impact" to the state, including nearly 2,000 jobs, which could vanish if Sundance relocates.
The festival's relocation committee is now weighing competing bids from Boulder, Colorado and Cincinnati, Ohio alongside Utah's offer, with a final decision expected by late April.
