1.   The administration had floated the idea of increased taxes on beer, spirits and tobacco.

2.   In recent weeks, the administration has floated various amnesty options by which illegal immigrants would be legalized, as if to test the political waters.

3.   Six years ago, when the Clinton administration floated its proposal, the concept was relatively new.

4.   The administration has floated several proposals, notably the Clipper chip and key escrow encryption, that give government officials a way to unlock files.

5.   The Bush administration floated a trial balloon on immigration reform earlier this summer, indicating that it was considering a legalization plan.

6.   The Clinton administration is floating a plan to give government agencies keys to unscramble sensitive computer files belonging to American citizens.

7.   The officials said the administration would float several ideas, including the creation of a commission to make nonbinding recommendations to Congress and the administration.

8.   This summer, the Pataki administration floated a proposed compromise with the other regions, only to withdraw it under fire from other Northeastern states and environmental groups.

9.   Two months ago, the Clinton administration floated the idea of selling the agency, but has since changed its mind.

10.   And, sparring with the Republicans over spending cuts, the administration has floated the possibility of eliminating a Cabinet department.