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State Sen. Chris Buttars is sponsoring a resolution asking the Legislature to declare its opposition to what he calls the war on Christmas.
He tells the Salt Lake Tribune he's sick of disputes over the word Christmas. He said, "We're a Christian nation and ought to use the word."
Buttars, R-West Jordan, wants retailers to embrace Christmas in their promotions.
Reaction is mixed if not worse.
One local advertising executive, Dave Newbold, says no one should force their beliefs on others. And Jim Olsen, president of the Utah Retail Merchants Association, says it would be difficult for retailers to stick to using just Christmas if they are part of national promotions that don't use the name of the holiday.
Olsen said, "Some people will comment that they're offended by using Christmas. Others have said that they want us to use Christmas."
Civil rights attorneys say there are potential First Amendment violations. Lawmakers want to see the legislation before judging.
Democratic Rep. David Litvack questions the measure. "I'm not offended by it. I don't have a problem with it. But again, this is not wise use of our time as a Legislature," he said. You can hear more of his comments by playing the audio on this page.
Buttars says several fellow lawmakers support his effort, though he wouldn't name them.
Olsen doubts the Buttars resolution will be near the top of any wish list when the Legislature convenes. "I think that the Legislature, in 45 days, has numerous issues that are much more important," he said.
The resolution is still being drafted.
E-mail: aadams@ksl.com
E-mail: tcallan@ksl.com
(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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