The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill Thursday that will restrict medical malpractice awards and limit the time frame in which a potential plaintiff can file a malpractice lawsuit. Backed by President Bush, the bill aims to cap pain and suffering awards at $250,000 and punitive damages at twice the amount of economic damages. The bill would also limit attorney fees.

The measure is largely backed by Republicans and doctors, who allege that large medical malpractice verdicts have caused insurance premiums to rise, forcing many physicians to leave their practice. Plaintiff attorneys, however, say insurance companies have raised premiums to cover their losses caused by bad investments over the last few years. The Senate, which is unlikely to vote on the legislation before Congress adjourns for the year, has rejected six similar bills aimed at capping malpractice awards since 1995.