However, the settlement does not restrict lawsuits later from people who are ill or injured now, or who become ill later.

The House passed a patients' bill of rights that restricts lawsuits more than the Senate's version; Mr. Bush has promised a veto.

This month, the administration won the first round in its fight to curb litigation, as Congress passed legislation to sharply restrict class-action lawsuits against companies.

It restricts class-action lawsuits that in the past have been brought accusing banks of harsh repayment agreements.

But the Governor failed to win approval of other business initiatives, including a proposal to restrict lawsuits by shareholders against their corporate boards.

They would like a bill narrower in scope, one that would restrict lawsuits.

Trial lawyers have long opposed Republican efforts to restrict lawsuits against business.

The court made retroactive an earlier ruling restricting lawsuits by dismissed workers against former employers.

House Democrats blocked malpractice bills twice in the last two years, but Republicans now predict that legislation restricting lawsuits will pass.

He also said members were expected to support legislation that restricts lawsuits against firearm manufacturers this weekend.