This week in Utah news:
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert gets an earful from Republican state lawmakers for his coronavirus measures during a Tuesday meeting. The group, led by the governor and Gov.-elect Spencer Cox, spent more than four hours with Republican House members, explaining the reality of the risk, and the reason for the response.
After getting COVID-19, some Utah children are hospitalized with a serious illness. Doctors at Primary Children’s Hospital said Monday they are seeing more and more of this illness — at least 20 cases as of Monday — and it is casting doubt over the widespread belief that COVID-19 is almost never serious in children.
A state lawmaker aims to create a criminal defense for drivers who hit and kill protesters during a riot. The bill also includes a provision to charge someone with a third-degree felony for obstructing traffic during a riot. Protesters found guilty of the offense could face up to five years in prison.
And an audit into the dealings of the former head of the Utah Department of Agriculture finds free-spending and cronyism. Former Commissioner Kerry Gibson was found to have potential problems with the cannabis grower selection process, inappropriate use of state cars and questionable travel practices.
At 9 a.m. on Friday, Salt Lake Tribune reporters Erin Alberty and Bethany Rodgers and news columnist Robert Gehrke join KCPW’s Roger McDonough to talk about the week’s top stories. Every Friday at 9 a.m., stream “Behind the Headlines” at kcpw.org, or tune in to KCPW 88.3 FM or Utah Public Radio for the broadcast. Join the live conversation by calling (801) 355-TALK.
