Bramble cited these concerns with the proposed ban: questions about the constitutionality of trying to tie the hands of future Legislatures, questions about whether the state can interfere with interstate commerce, and threats of litigation by the industry.

If the existing rule isn't sufficient, he said, "then nothing else we could do, including the bill today, could make any difference."

Robert Rees, the Legislature's associate general council, said he did not think a ban would pose a serious constitutional problem.

Tim Barney, senior vice president of Envirocare, said the task force "took a lot of actions adverse to us. They raised our taxes, they imposed additional regulatory restraints and they drew a box around our business" concerning what kind of material Envirocare could accept.

Barney said he thought panel members were sincere and cared deeply about the issues.

During the debate, Rep. David L. Hogue, R-District 52, said Envirocare is not the evil empire. "We produce B and C waste" in Utah, he said.

"I feel a little bad because this discussion now is aimed at Envirocare and what they're doing," said Rep. Joseph G. Murray, R-District 8. The panel has seen the company's operation and feels good about what they do with Class A waste.

"But this is another ball game," he said, referring to B and C. The people, the Legislature and the governor do not want it, he added.

Arent said, "I am not trying to beat up on any company. . . . I don't care what company wants to bring this in. I don't want it."

Heidi Gillette, a Salt Lake mother, said Utahns expect the Legislature "to put the strongest possible language" into law, barring B and C. Also, for other waste that is accepted, she said, "we should raise the fees to the highest possible" level, consistent with what other states are doing. "We are not a dumping ground."

James O'Neal, a political consultant from Provo, said the recommendation ultimately approved was "lukewarm."

If the proposal was to allow gambling, task force members would be out on the street screaming and carrying placards, he said. Tax on radioactive waste is blood money and cancer money, he charged.

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E-mail: bau@desnews.com