SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Spacecraft operators and manufacturers, along with their parts and services suppliers, will be shielded in New Mexico from most damage lawsuits by passengers on space tourism flights under a proposal touted as a compromise between trial lawyers and the fledgling space travel industry.

Supporters of the measure say it should help New Mexico remain competitive in a race with Florida, Texas and other states to become a hub for commercial space travel.