The debtor in this case filed its chapter 11 petition in anticipation of being named as a defendant in hundreds, if not thousands, of lawsuits relating to claims of child sexual abuse. The imposition of the automatic stay in this case was notable for at least two reasons. First, the case was filed immediately before a change in state law eliminating the statute of limitations on claims asserted by the survivors of child sexual abuse. Second, the Court determined that the stay extended to protect not only the debtor in this case but also property of the debtor and the debtor’s estate, namely prepetition insurance policies.

Although the Court has tried to narrowly craft its orders concerning the scope of the automatic stay, this case has precluded many individuals from being able to pursue their claims and causes of action against the debtor and certain nondebtor entities covered by the debtor’s insurance policies for almost two years. Those individuals are parties in interest in this case and should be provided appropriate opportunities to address the Court and others. Not only is this approach warranted under the particular circumstances of this case, but it is also consistent with, and contemplated by the Court’s authority under, sections 105(a) and (d)(1), 362, and 1109(b) of the Bankruptcy Code and Federal Rule of Bankruptcy Procedure 5001(b). Accordingly, the Court will schedule a status conference to allow certain claimants to address the Court, the debtor, and other parties in interest in this case.