Utah governor wants lawmakers to back off efforts to change liquor laws this year

Gov. Gary Herbert says state lawmakers should back off efforts to change Utah's liquor laws this year, including a proposal to repeal a requirement that some restaurants mix and prepare drinks out of customers' view.

Herbert, a Republican, told reporters Tuesday afternoon that Utah's alcohol policies appear to be working and he doesn't see a need for a change.

Heber City Republican Rep. Kraig Powell has a bill that allows restaurants to remove the drink preparation barriers, known as "Zion curtains,"

Instead, restaurants would be required to have an adults-only seating area and a sign warning drinks are being prepared in full view.

The bill has not yet had a hearing.

Herbert said he's prepared "just to give it a rest." He said he's open to revisiting the issue in the future.