"Groups Want Public Lands Bills Pulled From Defense Act"

"A coalition of 47 environmental organizations called on U.S. senators Monday to remove public lands riders from a defense bill, criticizing what they described as a 'kitchen-sink' approach to conservation.

Several public lands proposals in several states including Montana have been attached to the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2015.

The House approved the bill Wednesday. The Senate is expected to vote later this week."

Karl Puckett reports for the Great Falls Tribune December 9, 2014.

SEE ALSO:

"Major Package of Wilderness, Parks And Energy Bills Hitches Ride on Defense Authorization" (E&E Daily)

"Defense Bill Hits Snag Over Land Swaps, Wilderness" (AP)