A Senate panel passed a resolution Tuesday, 4-2, to register the state's support for developing nuclear power in Utah. The vote followed a lively, hour-long discussion in the Senate Transportation and Public Utilities Committee that included detailed comments by former Rep. Aaron Tilton, the chief executive officer of a company proposing Utah's first commercial nuclear power plant.
Tilton sat beside the SJR16's sponsor, Sen. David Hinkins, R-Orangeville, and described a positive future for an energy source he described as clean, safe and cost-effective.
Critics cited studies -- from Congress, industry and interest groups of various political stripes -- that questioned the safety and affordability of nuclear power. Many noted that reactors would require too much precious Utah water and would lack disposal for used fuel.
Claire Geddes of Utah Legislative Watch said endorsing the bill might make it look like lawmakers were promoting a friend's financial fortunes.
"He has a vested financial interest in this," she said of Tilton.
The bill goes next to the Senate floor.
