[JURIST] The US House of Representatives [official website] is expected on Thursday to approve a bill that will block various civil lawsuits filed against US gun manufacturers. Both Republicans and Democrats predicted that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act [S. 397 bill summary] would be approved with bipartisan support, clearing the way for President Bush to sign the law. The legislation gives gun manufacturers and dealers broad immunity from lawsuits filed by cities and municipalities, as well as for many suits filed by people harmed by guns. Opponents of the legislation, including the Brady Campaign [advocacy website], have warned that they will challenge the law in court. The legislation has been strongly supported by the National Rifle Association [advocacy website] and other gun-rights groups for years. Reuters has more.

12:21 PM ET – The House voted 283-144 to pass the legislation and it will now go to President Bush for his signature. AP has more.