31.   But in applying the law to drunk drivers, she said, officials may be imposing a punishment disproportionate to the crime.

32.   But in Washington, Christopher Bush, a State Department spokesman, said the United States intended to apply the law fully.

33.   But it is doubtful whether the law can be applied in practice, if too many people try to use it.

34.   But the new law cannot be applied retroactively.

35.   But sociologists argue that cultural differences are real and should be considered when applying the law.

36.   But there is particular confusion about how to apply Islamic law in this country, in part because American Muslims are fragmented into many groups.

37.   But the justices ruled that it is not unconstitutional to apply the law to Falcone, Brumett or any other such sex offender who meets the criteria for notification.

38.   But the new law has not been invoked, administration officials said, because sanctions laws cannot be applied retroactively.

39.   But whether the new laws are applied, the experts and others have been quick to suggest, remains to be seen.

40.   California Democratic Rep. Zoe Lofgren, a member of the Judiciary panel, said she sees her job as applying the law to facts.