COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - Hundreds of doctors in white lab coats were at the Statehouse today to show support for legislation that would limit lawsuits.

The bills would change a number of rules in the legal system, including placing a 250-thousand dollar cap on the amount of punitive damages a jury can award for pain and suffering. The bill would also restrict where a lawsuit can be filed.

Supporters of the bills want the Senate to decide their fate in the next few weeks. Similar bills passed the House last year.

Supporters say current laws hurt businesses and drive up malpractice insurance rates for doctors. Opponents say capping damages may cause some doctors to take medical malpractice less seriously.

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell expects the bills to get out of the Judiciary Committee next week.