The Capitol Preservation Board voted unanimously Tuesday to move forward with a revamped rule that lays out the guidelines for free-speech activities at the state Capitol complex.

The rule will be formally published on Nov. 1, starting a 30-day public comment period for Utahns to weigh in on the issue. Barring substantial changes to the rule, it will go into effect on Dec. 1.

Under the latest version of the rule, outdoor activities are allowed 24 hours a day and indoor activities from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. or as long as the building is open. Free-speech leafleting will be allowed in all public areas at all times, so long as it does not prevent others from accessing sidewalks and doorways.

The rule also sets out the process for individuals or groups to secure a two- or four-hour demonstration permit and includes an expedited appeals process in the event the request is denied.

The free-speech rule was significantly rewritten after a public outcry that the original rule overly restricted First Amendment activities on the Hill.

"I think the rules now are in much, much better format than they were before," said Rep. Wayne Harper, R-West Jordan, noting the free-speech rule is "much closer to the target of being harmonious with constitutional guidelines of freedom of speech" and the need to "maintain security and decorum" on Capitol Hill.

The rule applies only to areas under the control of the preservation board, which excludes much of the space in the temporary House building, where the Legislature convenes. Also on Tuesday, board members voted to recommend that the Legislative Management Committee adopt similar rules for areas within its jurisdiction.

Written comments about the rule, which is available online at www.cpb.state.ut.us, can be sent to the Capitol Preservation Board, Room E110 East Building, 420 N. State, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-2110. They can also be e-mailed to dhart@utah.gov or swhitney@utah.gov.

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