21.   The provision has been added to an emergency supplemental spending bill.

22.   The Senate, meanwhile, continued to bicker over the confirmation of judicial appointees and appeared stymied on the passage of its own version of the supplemental spending bill.

23.   The supplemental spending bills moving through Congress are necessary to cover budget shortfalls.

24.   The Texas Legislature is expected to approve a supplemental spending bill to cover the Medicaid and criminal-justice costs when it convenes next year.

25.   Now Congress must pass special supplemental spending bills to cover unexpected expenses.

26.   On another topic, Mineta said he would support adding money to the Coast Guard budget if Congress passes a supplemental spending bill.

27.   President Bush has said he opposes a supplemental spending bill.

28.   The notices are still on hold, however, while House and Senate negotiators work out differences on a supplemental spending bill that includes money for them.

29.   Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta said last month he would support adding money to the Coast Guard budget if Congress passes a supplemental spending bill.