New York lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to secure permanent funding for the World Trade Center Health Program. This initiative is crucial for over 130,000 9/11 first responders and survivors who depend on the program for ongoing medical care. The effort is spearheaded by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, along with Representative Andrew Garbarino, and aims to address projected funding shortfalls by 2028. The bill seeks to extend the program’s funding through 2090, ensuring continuous support for those affected.
The World Trade Center Health Program faces financial challenges due to rising medical costs and increasing enrollment. Without additional funding, the program risks cutting vital services, potentially leaving many without necessary care. “For these survivors and families, the anxiety of not knowing it’s going to be there is too much to bear,” Senator Gillibrand emphasized, highlighting the importance of stability and reassurance for those impacted by the 9/11 attacks.
The proposed legislation has garnered significant bipartisan support, underscoring its importance. Representative Anthony D’Esposito emphasized the urgency, stating, “It’s absolutely insane that we’re still here fighting for what heroes deserve.”
The bill honors the legacy of individuals like Luis Alvarez, an NYPD detective who became a symbol of the struggle for 9/11 health benefits and whose testimony before Congress in 2019 highlighted the critical need for continued funding.
The legislation is designed to provide long-term financial stability, ensuring that the program can continue to offer comprehensive medical services, including treatment for respiratory illnesses and cancers linked to exposure at Ground Zero. The proposed extension through 2090 aims to cover all current and future needs, addressing the uncertainties faced by survivors and responders.
As the bill moves through Congress, its supporters are pushing for swift passage, recognizing the pressing need to secure these essential services for the 9/11 community. The permanent funding solution represents a commitment to honoring and caring for those who risked their lives during and after the attacks, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
