Minnesota House May OK Disposal of I-35W Bridge Parts

ST. PAUL (AP) - Historians, safety officials, educators and victims of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse would have six months to claim remnant steel from it under a bill the Minnesota House is set to vote on Monday.

The window would start the day after the bill gets signed. Once time is up, the Minnesota Department of Transportation can sell the rest to scrap dealers.

The Historical Society, victims and some others would get priority and receive parts free of charge.

The disposal plan follows the final legal settlements from the deadly 2007 tragedy. It took legislation because officials wanted an orderly process and to ensure they weren't liable given the lead-based paint from the old bridge's lime-green supports.

After expenses, the state expects to clear $645,000 from sale of 3,260 tons of steel.