Legislative Supporters of Minn. Bridge Victims’ Fund Push for Early Deadline

Supporters of a special fund to compensate victims of last summer’s Minneapolis bridge collapse hope to have a law establishing the account passed by mid-March.

State Senator Ron Latz and Representative Ryan Winkler say they will strive to get a bill for the compensation fund on the governor’s desk by the Legislature’s spring recess.

The two Democrats say in a joint news release that legislative leaders have endorsed their timeline.

They say speed is essential because victims and their families are coping with financial hardships, including medical bills. An interim compensation fund was established in late November to help victims with some immediate needs.

The Interstate 35W bridge collapse on Aug. 1 killed 13 people and injured 145.

A hearing on the legislation is set for next Tuesday