The Utah Supreme Court heard arguments challenging the Legislature's creation of a new "constitutional court" designed to review ballot initiatives before they reach voters, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. Critics argue the body violates separation of powers and undermines direct democracy.

The constitutional court would have authority to strike initiatives from the ballot if legislators deem them constitutionally flawed. Supporters say it prevents unenforceable measures from reaching voters; opponents call it a veto mechanism to kill popular reforms the Legislature opposes.

The case follows years of tension between Utah's heavily LDS, Republican-controlled Legislature and citizen initiative campaigns on Medicaid, redistricting, and other issues. Justices questioned whether the new court duplicates judicial functions and whether the Legislature can constitutionally pre-screen voter petitions.