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State Representative Ryan Winkler
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-7026
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
Press/News Releases
PILLSBURY UNITED COMMUNITIES HONORS REP. WINKLER FOR I35W COMPENSATION BILL
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - Today the new I35W Bridge opened to traffic for the first time - just over one year after the devastating bridge collapse that took the lives of 13 people and injured over 100 others. The painful memories of that terrible event remain fresh in the minds of those who lost loved ones, those who survived, and those whose lives will never be the same.
Due in part to the leadership and advocacy of State Representative Ryan Winkler (DFL - Golden Valley/St. Louis Park), Minnesota lawmakers passed a bill into law (HF2553) providing survivors of the I35W Bridge collapse the help they needed to pay outstanding medical bills, long-term disability needs, lost wages, and other damages incurred on August 1, 2007. Today, Rep. Winkler was recognized by Pillsbury United Communities for his uncommon legislative efforts with the organization’s highest honor - the President’s Leadership Award.
The $38 million I35W Survivor Compensation Fund provided up to $400 thousand for each victim of the bridge collapse out of a $28 million primary fund. A supplemental $12.64 million fund is available for the most severely injured to recover uncompensated medical expenses, long-term health costs, and lost wages. Survivors have until October 15 to file their claim.
The bill also provided $610,000 to Waite House - a Pillsbury organization providing human and community organization services for the Phillips neighborhood in Minneapolis. A number of children from Waite House were returning home after a field trip when the I35W Bridge collapsed beneath their bus. Funds distributed to Waite House from the I35W Survivor Compensation Fund will be used to help children involved in the bridge collapse recover from their injuries and other adverse effects of the event.
Since the collapse, Waite House kids have continued doing what they’ve always done; what they’re good at - giving back to their community. Recently, children involved in the bridge collapse created a large public mural at 2822 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis. The mural is meant to express their experiences in a healing and meaningful manner. It is just one more lasting, positive contribution to their neighborhood and a daily reminder of the enduring strength of their community.
“Throughout this difficult year, the kids at Waite House have displayed courage, strength, and resolve," said Rep. Ryan Winkler. “We can all learn something from the way these kids have handled tragedy.
“Looking to the example of these kids, and the memory of those Minnesotans lost on August 1, we must come together to ensure nothing like this ever happens again in our state,” said Winkler. “We have a responsibility to learn what we can from this tragedy and take all necessary action to secure the safety of Minnesota roads and bridges, and our citizens.”
News Items
- Statement on Budget Forecast - (Posted: 2012-12-05 00:00:00)
- Statement on Final I-35 W Bridge Settlement - (Posted: 2012-11-13 00:00:00)
- Rep. Winkler: Tea Party Activists Can’t Be Trusted to Reform Our Elections - (Posted: 2012-11-01 00:00:00)
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