The Latest: Herbert supportive of ‘Zion Curtain’ repeal

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The Latest on Gov. Gary Herbert’s state of the state (all times local):

6:55 p.m.

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.

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6:35 p.m.

Utah Gov. Gary Herbert is using his State of the State speech to call on Utah lawmakers to help address Salt Lake City’s homelessness problems.

Following a similar call by Utah’s Speaker of the House Greg Hughes on Monday, Herbert in his speech Wednesday night called on the state to help tackle homelessness and problems associated with city’s overflowing homeless shelter, including drug dealing.

The governor said he’s grateful to Hughes for diving into the issue and that he wants to hear the speaker’s recommendations on what steps to take next.

Advocates are asking lawmakers for $27 million for four new shelters and programs this year, a proposal the governor didn’t discuss in his speech.

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12:35 p.m.

Gov. Gary Herbert will lay out his priorities for the year in his annual State of the State address at the Capitol Wednesday evening.

Herbert, a Republican who has been in office since 2009, has said he wants to work on improving education in Utah, including by boosting test scores and graduation rates.

He’s also said he wants to make sure the state collects sales tax from online purchases and takes steps to ensure the Utah’s fast-growing population has enough water in the coming decades.

Herbert will give the speech before the full Legislature in the House of Representatives chamber at 6:30 p.m.