31.   Federal officials have said the loophole has the potential to cost the government tens of billions of dollars in overpayments.

32.   First Deputy Prime Minister Anatoly Chubais said the decision was right, even though it cost the government in lost revenues.

33.   He did not say how much the additional coverage was likely to cost the government.

34.   It was costing the government heavily in lost taxes.

35.   It was unclear how much the plan would cost the government, which is struggling to close a massive budget gap.

36.   It will cost governments.

37.   It could cost the government billions, Day said.

38.   Now several economists and financial analysts say that fear has been validated -- and some suggest the plan may ultimately cost the government more.

39.   Republicans warned this could create a new entitlement and cost the government billions.

40.   Power theft has cost the government millions, but officials have been unwilling to force everyone to pay for electricity when legislators face elections next year.