Utah Court Weighs Law Creating Three-Judge Panels

The Utah Supreme Court heard arguments over whether the Legislature had authority to create three-judge panels for lawsuits challenging state laws as unconstitutional. Plaintiffs in cases involving redistricting, abortion and environmental issues argued that the panel system intrudes on the judiciary’s authority over court administration and violates separation of powers; the state and Legislature said lawmakers have broad power to shape court procedures. Justices questioned both sides as they weighed the scope of legislative authority under the Utah Constitution. The court is considering whether the new system can stand, as some challenges seek to block the laws.