31.   Earlier, the governor had said only that he would consider the bill if it cleared the Senate.

32.   Elementary, one would think, surely for legislators considering a bill outlawing the controversial medical procedure.

33.   Even so, Kassebaum has been forced to fight just to get the Senate to agree to consider her bill.

34.   For their part, anti-abortion leaders dismiss the idea that the court ruling will influence the votes of lawmakers when the bills are considered again.

35.   For its part, New Jersey is considering a bill that would open a two-month glass-eel season during peak migration.

36.   Hastert did keep his promise to Reps. Christopher Shays of Connecticut and Martin Meehan of Massachusetts to allow their bill to be considered.

37.   He is a member of the Judiciary Committee, which is considering a bill that would restrict product liability suits.

38.   He promised to challenge the conference committee report again when the interstate banking bill is considered by the Senate.

39.   However, two states have passed legislation regulating the conversion of non-profit hospitals into for-profits, and several other states are considering bills.

40.   How quickly the House begins debate may rest with the Rules Committee, which can set a specific time to consider the bill.