In our opinion: Editorial: Sensible liquor laws

"Avoid further privatization of alcohol sales in states with government operated or contracted liquor stores."

The CDC appreciates that these specific controls — the very kind of policies that Utah enjoys — are not retrograde ideas. To the contrary: This board of experts, relying on data and analysis, considers these controls the most forward-thinking and effective ways to redress the serious health and safety concerns that are silently ravaging the most vulnerable individuals in our society.

We deplore the corruption at DABC and urge lawmakers to quickly sanitize its operations. But we would further urge lawmakers to not confuse anti-corruption efforts with privatization.

The basic framework of our liquor laws has given Utah an exceptional record of public health and safety with regard to the dangerous and costly effects of alcohol abuse. That framework deserves at least the same respect from our elected officials as it does from the nation's public health experts.