A Change in Ports of Entry
Following several hearings and much debate, the 1987 Utah State Legislature directed the Utah Highway Patrol to eliminate sworn officers from the Ports of Entry. Troopers were replaced by special function officers. The special function category was created in an attempt to reduce training and wages. Special function officers had authority only in their assigned duties and only while officially working in that capacity. Troopers previously assigned to the Ports of Entry were given the option to remain at the port with a reduced wage or transfer to another position within the department. The 1990 legislature completely reorganized the Ports of Entry and transferred responsibility from the Utah Highway Patrol to the Department of Transportation.