In Minnesota, 100s Take Opportunity to Sue Over Sex Abuse

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — It's been nearly three years since Minnesota opened a path for lawsuits by victims of long-ago childhood sexual abuse.

In that time, more than 800 people have brought abuse claims against churches, the Boy Scouts, schools and a children's theater company. Previously unknown offenders have been exposed. Two Roman Catholic dioceses have filed bankruptcy. Lists of credibly accused priests and thousands of documents have been released. And the heightened scrutiny played a part in the downfall of two bishops.

Attorney Jeff Anderson says Minnesota's window, which closes May 25, give survivors a voice.

It was strongly opposed by the Catholic Church and other institutions that are now fighting to block similar exemptions to the statutes of limitations in Pennsylvania and New York, citing the effects in Minnesota and other states.