PITTSBURGH Judge approves rules on claims against Chi-Chi's

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- A judge overseeing Chi-Chi's bankruptcy on Friday approved new rules on claims for lost wages and out-of-pocket medical expenses by customers and workers who contracted hepatitis A at one of the chain's western Pennsylvania restaurants.
The interim order still doesn't allow lawsuits to be filed -- because Chi-Chi's is under Chapter 11 protection, it can't be sued unless the bankruptcy judge lifts an automatic stay against such suits -- but should help the restaurant reach out to the victims and rehabilitate its public image.
Three people died and at least 640 people were sickened by green onions tainted by the liver virus after eating or working at the chain's restaurant in the Beaver Valley Mall, about 45 miles southeast of Youngstown, in late September or October. So far, about 50 people have called a hot line set up by Chi-Chi's (800-328-7761) seeking out-of-pocket reimbursements, said David Ernst, Chi-Chi's Oregon-based attorney.
Nearly all of those requests have been for $3,000 or less, Ernst said.
"We are paying those requests when they come in when they're supported [by medical records or pay stubs], and we'll continue to do so because it's the right thing to do," Ernst said.