Speech #1060019091

H.R. 3950. the administration testified in support of the wilderness designation but opposed language in the bill which would have allowed all law enforcement activities and fire management activities to occur without regard to the wilderness designation or without regard to the Wilderness Act of 1964. The Subcommittee on National Parks and Public Lands. in adopting the bill last Congress. agreed to an amendment to address the problems with the bill. This new language recognized ongoing drug interdiction. border enforcement and fire management and the need to allow these activities to continue as long as they are in accordance with the Wilderness Act and subject to appropriate conditions as determined by the Secretary of the Interior. H.R. 15 reflects the agreed upon language from the last Congress. While there are some individuals and organizations that would prefer no mention in the bill of border activities or fire activities. we believe the language of the bill is acceptable and will not undermine the administration of the area as wilderness.