MINNESOTA
Star Tribune

By Jean Hopfensperger Star Tribune MAY 26, 2016 — 2:34PM

The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis filed its financial reorganization plan in bankruptcy court Thursday, offering a strategy for regaining financial stability while compensating an expected 400 clergy abuse claims.

The plan calls for the creation of a $65 million trust fund for victims, which could increase if further insurance settlements are reached, as well as a $500,000 counseling fund for victims and new protocols to prevent future abuse.

“We filed our plan today — after 16 months — because victims/survivors cannot be compensated until a plan of reorganization is finalized and approved,” said Archbishop Bernard Hebda at a news conference Thursday afternoon.

“The longer the process lasts, more money is spent on attorneys’ fees and bankruptcy expenses; and … less money is available for them.”

Hebda acknowledged that the plan may face objections, but…