Utah § 2a-219 - Religious practice during a state of emergency.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 2a-219 — Religious practice during a state of emergency., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2a-219. Religious practice during a state of emergency.

Effective 5/5/2021
53-2a-219.  Religious practice during a state of emergency.
(1) During a state of emergency declared as described in this chapter:
(a) the governor or chief executive officer of a political subdivision may not impose a restriction on a religious gathering that is more restrictive than a restriction on any other relevantly similar gathering; and
(b) an individual, while acting or purporting to act within the course and scope of the individual's official government capacity, may not:
(i) prevent a religious gathering that is held in a manner consistent with any order or restriction issued pursuant to this part; or
(ii) impose a penalty for a previous religious gathering that was held in a manner consistent with any order or restriction issued pursuant to this part.
(2) Upon proper grounds, a court of competent jurisdiction may grant an injunction to prevent the violation of this section.
(3) During a state of emergency declared as described in this title, the governor or the chief executive of a political subdivision shall not issue an executive order or impose or implement a regulation that substantially burdens an individual's exercise of religion unless the governor or chief executive officer of the political subdivision demonstrates that the application of the burden to the individual:
(a) is in furtherance of a compelling government interest; and
(b) is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling government interest.
(4) Notwithstanding Subsections (1) and (3), an executive order shall allow reasonable accommodations for an individual to perform or participate in a religious practice or rite.


Enacted by Chapter 437, 2021 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 2a-219

What does Utah Code § 2a-219 cover?

Section 2a-219 ("Religious practice during a state of emergency.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 2a-219?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 2a-219" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 2a-219 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.