But, he said, the real estate industry has effectively blocked the bill.

Democrats tried four times to block or change the bill.

His activity blocked the bill from being considered in the waning hours of the session.

Administration officials had stated their intention to take the matter to court to block the bill.

But Republicans said they would not consider it, so he voted to block the bill from moving ahead.

But Democratic leaders redoubled their efforts to block the bill.

At the same time, some opponents raised doubts about whether they had enough votes to block the bill.

If he blocks the bill, the religious parties could bring down his Government.

Senate rules would permit a single senator to block the bill because it increases the deficit.

On March 27, Clinton again vowed to block the bill.