SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah Gov. Gary Herbert is appearing to endorse a proposal repealing a longtime state requirement that some Utah restaurants prepare and mix alcoholic drinks behind a barrier at least 7 feet tall.
Herbert said in his Wednesday night State of the State speech that he supports the work of two lawmakers who want to repeal the barriers, known as “Zion Curtains,” in exchange for increasing the state markup on alcohol and tightening up other liquor laws.
Herbert says the repeal can be done without stigmatizing responsible adults or allowing restaurants to feel like bars.
The governor also sounded a hopeful note on President Donald Trump’s administration.
Herbert, a Republican did not vote for Trump, says he’s hopeful Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress will make major changes that give the state greater control over its education, transportation, health care and public lands.