But he and other lawmakers gave the agency high marks for a much more efficient operation in recent years.

Two years ago, lawmakers gave Mr. Bennett $5 million a year to initiate his idea at 10 schools.

The lawmakers then gave him a standing ovation; he shook his head and tried to wave off the applause.

Few lawmakers give such ideas much of a chance unless the Justice Department's new approach proves a flop.

Schoolchildren are the most common reason lawmakers give for the bills.

Russian lawmakers gave the commonwealth an overwhelming endorsement and the Asian republics moved toward joining.

But lawmakers have given strong support to higher military budgets since the Sept. 11 attacks.

The lawmakers gave him a standing ovation but voted against him.

Few if any lawmakers have given a detailed outline of strategic goals that could be used to determine spending levels.

Over the summer, lawmakers and lobbyists had given three of the bills a good chance of passing.