LEGISLATORS in the US state of Utah have advanced a Bill that experts say would establish one of the most restrictive labour laws in the country.

Republicans say they want to ban collective bargaining across all of Utah’s public sector.

The measure was approved by the business, labour and commerce committee of the state’s House of Representatives in an 11-4 vote on Thursday.

Public-sector workers could still join unions under the Bill, but the unions could not formally negotiate on their behalf.

State Representative Jordan Teuscher, who is sponsoring the Bill, said collective bargaining agreements restrict workers from participating in their own contract negotiations, only allowing communication between the union representative and the employer. 

Teaching unions view the Bill as a way for Republicans to weaken them and clear a path for their own education agenda.

Sara Jones of the Utah Education Association said: “The harm of the Bill will be borne by public-school educators living and working in every single legislative district.

“It sends a message that educators don’t deserve a collective voice in their profession, don’t deserve input on their salaries or working conditions or benefits or don’t deserve a say in the policies that impact their classrooms.”