The Importance of Paying Attention
The following op-ed was published in the Deseret News. “No man’s life, liberty, or property are safe while the legislature is in session.” This well-known saying comes from Gideon J. Tucker, a lawyer and legislator who in 1866...
Playing Chicken with Property Rights
“The great and chief end, therefore, of men’s uniting into commonwealths, and putting themselves under government, is the preservation of their property”—John Locke, Second Treatise of Civil Government Last night the City...
2014 Legislative Report
Libertas Institute is primarily an educational institution, spreading the message of liberty through articles, lectures, media, and other outlets. Part of our work also entails proposing reforms that would make the laws more...
Potential Court Reform in Utah
As we explained in our asset forfeiture policy analysis, “policing for profit” is a problematic element in law enforcement. Similarly, there is a concern that local justice courts in Utah can prosecute and adjudicate for profit...
The 2014 Real State of the State
Last night, Governor Herbert delivered his “State of the State” speech for 2014. Key themes included economic development, clean air, education, population growth, and state sovereignty. Towards the end, the Governor...
Don’t Forget Those Pesky Fundamental Principles
Another year, another legislative session. It’s true that Utah’s part-time, limited-salary legislature has its benefits. I mean, just look at California (my home state, which I’m not so fond of admitting these...