Conservationists have long sought adequate protection for roadless areas in Montana's National Forests. Over the years, 16 different bills have been introduced; in 1988, Congress did pass a Montana wilderness bill, but it was vetoed by President Ronald Reagan.

In May, the House considered -- and eventually passed -- a bill introduced by Rep. Pat Williams (D-MT) which would protect about 3 million acres of Montana's remaining 5 million acres of roadless lands. Many environmental organizations supported the bill (H.R. 2473).

Rep. John Bryant (D-TX) offered an amendment designed to strengthen protection for Montana's wild forests. It required the U.S. Forest Service to practice sound forest management, protect native plants and animals, and bar taxpayer subsidized road construction in roadless areas not otherwise protected under H.R. 2473. Environmentalists -- who oppose construction of subsidized roads in undeveloped areas because it promotes erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction -- supported the amendment.

On May 17, 1994, the House rejected the Bryant amendment by a vote of 142 - 283. YES is the pro-environment vote.