~ Existing state funds to be made available for interim support for victims and families ~

Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty and the co-chairs of the Joint House-Senate Subcommittee on Claims, Senator Ron Latz (DFL-St. Louis Park) and Rep. Dennis Ozment (R-Rosemount), today announced a plan to provide near-term relief for victims of the I-35W bridge collapse.

Under the plan, which does not require legislative approval, up to $1 million in existing state tort claim funds will be made available to individuals who suffered injuries due to the collapse of the I-35W Bridge on August 1, 2007. Families of those killed in the collapse will also be eligible for funds.

Payments from the “I-35W Emergency Hardship Relief Fund” would be limited to $10,000 per claimant and would be based on lost wages due to physical injury or death. The Governor’s Office and legislators continue to work on a plan for consideration during the 2008 legislative session to create a special victims fund that would provide additional support for victims of the bridge collapse and their families.

“This is an important first step toward assisting the individuals and families impacted by this horrible tragedy,” Governor Pawlenty said. “We hope these funds will provide a measure of relief in the near-term while we work on a bipartisan longer-term solution.”

“We're doing our very best to do what’s right for the survivors, victims, their families and the people of Minnesota,” Senator Latz said.

“All Minnesotans came together in the aftermath of the bridge collapse,” Representative Ozment said. “Now we are making sure those on the bridge that day have the help and support they need.”

Those seeking funds will use the existing claims process that involves the Department of Administration’s Risk Management Division and their claims adjusters to process claims requesting interim payment. The Risk Management Division will consult with the Attorney General’s Office. Lost wages payments will be based on existing no-fault reimbursement process.

Payments from the “I-35W Emergency Hardship Relief Fund” would not be an admission of any liability and would not be admissible in any adjudicatory proceeding. Payments would be offset against any future recovery from the State.

Claimants can receive more information or file a claim at:

Claims Helpline: (612) 766-3920
Hearing impaired: (800) 627-3529

Allied Adjusters
I-35W Emergency Hardship Relief Fund
P.O. Box 583479
Minneapolis, MN 55458-3479

Fax: (612) 766-3799
Email: pandersen@state.mn.us