"We are still part of the United States of America. Just because we don't agree with one part of the federal law does not mean we continue to go our own way," said Schweitzer, a Democrat.

After the vote, the bill was sent to the appropriations committee in the House, which will be tasked with looking at the big price tag. If it gets out of there, it faces an even tougher path in the Senate. And Schweitzer made it clear it probably wouldn't get past his desk, if it gets that far.

Schweitzer said that Montana benefits greatly in its relationship with the federal government, getting more than $1.50 back in federal money for every dollar state residents and businesses send in tax money to Washington D.C.

"We can't just choose to opt out when we want," Schweitzer said. "What kind of civil society would we have?"

Kerns and supporters of ignoring the Endangered Species Act argued that the principle of taking state control of wolves was more important than the billion-dollar hole it would create across several state agencies. The conservatives said the state shouldn't be taking money from a federal government that is running a big deficit.

"They are bribing us with debt," Kerns said. "Now is the time to stand up and say no more."