Washington, D.C. ? The Senate on Friday agreed to devote $1 billion over the next five years to combat street gangs and protect witnesses of gang violence.

Legislation approved by voice vote also establishes new federal crimes to cover gang recruitment and illegal acts by gangs, and increases penalties for gang-related crimes.

The measure includes approval of $411 million over five years for programs to keep young people out of gangs, with almost half of that going into areas that have a high intensity of gang activity.

It authorizes $270 million over three years for witness protection needs and creates a new federal crime of interference with witnesses in state court proceedings.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., has introduced a companion bill in the House.