Salt Lake Tribune · Dec 10, 2018
Utah’s troubled public defender system would get a big boost in funding under Gov. Gary Herbert’s plan
FILE - In this Sept. 12, 2018, file photo, Utah Gov. Gary Herbert speaks during a news conference at the Utah state Capitol in Salt Lake City. Herbert wants to add new sales taxes on services while cutting the overall rate to the tune of $200 million, part of a reform effort he says will be a "heavy lift" but is essential for the state's economic future. Herbert outlined the idea Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018, while introducing his plan for the state's $19 billion budget. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File) If you’re a Utahn facing criminal charges and can’t afford to hire an attorney, it’s likely you’ll be assigned a public defender who is overworked and underpaid — and state officials know it.