In brief: What you missed over the break
1. Same-sex marriage fight heats up in Utah
On Dec. 20, federal judge Robert J. Shelby struck down Utah’s Amendment 3, making same-sex marriage legal. Utah government officials immediately asked the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals for a stay on marriages until an appeal could be heard. Gov. Gary Herbert said the decision “created a chaotic situation in our state that requires an expedited judicial resolution.” After the appeal was denied four times, once by Shelby and three times by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, the stay was scheduled to be reviewed by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who turned the decision over to the entire court. On Monday, the Supreme Court halted all same-sex marriages in the state until an appeal decision is made by the 10th Circuit.
2. Utah governor appoints new attorney general
Gov. Gary Herbert appointed Sean Reyes as Utah’s new attorney general Dec. 23. After the resignation of John Swallow, the position was temporarily filled by Brian Tarbet. Reyes said he was devoted to eliminate any residue inflicted by the Swallow scandal.
3. Jarred Shaw charged
Utah State men’s basketball senior center Jarred Shaw was suspended from the team Dec. 16 and later charged with distribution, possession of drug paraphernalia and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of possession or use of a controlled substance on Jan. 3, a third-degree felony. He was reinstated to the team the same day.
4. Emissions testing now required in Cache County
With the start of the new year, residents of Cache County are required to complete an emissions test. The Cache County Council approved the ordinance by a 4-3 vote in March 2013. The purpose of the test is to identify vehicles emitting high levels of pollution and make necessary repairs to lower the levels. For more information about the ordinance and how to get a vehicle tested, residents can visit www.aircheckcache.com.
5. No Coke – Pepsi
Coca-Cola products are officially gone at USU. The winter break saw Coca-Cola products and vending machines removed from campus and replaced with Pepsi products as part of a new contract between the university and Pepsi. Dr. Pepper is still available as a fountain drink.
6. ACA health care plans now in full use
As of Jan. 1, the Affordable Care Act is in full effect. Customers can now use the benefits of their healthcare plans. Online registration started Oct. 1, 2013.
7. Arctic front freezes East and Midwest
A historic Arctic cold front is moving through half of the U.S., cancelling flights and keeping people inside their homes. The Midwest, part of the South and the East are suffering from record single-digit and subzero temperatures. CNN reported at least 30 states i
ssued a wind chill advisory or warning on Monday. This is the coldest weather some states have seen in 20 years.