Panel mulls plan to limit sealed court documents; Proposal would fuel litigation, say opponents.(News)

Byline: MARK A. HOFMANN

WASHINGTON-Legislation that would limit federal judges' authority to seal court records, including documentation provided during discovery and some details of settlements, is unnecessary and could actually harm those it is meant to protect, according to tort reform advocates.

The Senate Judiciary Committee had scheduled a vote on the Sunshine in Litigation Act for Feb. 14, but delayed it. A committee vote is expected as early as this week.

Supporters of the bill, which Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Wis., introduced last year, hold that its enactment would promote safety, health and corporate accountability.

"This legislation …