Doctors could apologize for mistakes and not worry about it leading to malpractice lawsuits under a bill (LB373) that could be debated by lawmakers this week.

A health care provider's apology or other expression of sympathy, condolence or a "general sense of benevolence" could not be used as an admission of liability in court. Statements of fault, however, could be used.

Proponents say apology laws bring down the number of malpractice claims filed in states that have them.

Senator DiAnna Schimek of Lincoln introduced the measure. Twenty-nine states have such laws in place.