Suffolk Reporter

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Representatives Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY) and Dan Goldman (D-NY) introduced the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2024 at a press conference with advocates and survivors. The proposed legislation aims to provide permanent and mandatory funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) by updating its funding formula to prevent future shortfalls.

The bill's key provisions include preventing cuts in services over the next decade, ensuring adequate funding until the program's expiration in 2090, increasing funds for research on 9/11 conditions, and making technical corrections to current statutes.

“There are more than 132,000 Americans enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program,” said Congressman Garbarino. “They are dealing with these illnesses because they were there that horrible day or in the days that followed. For that, we owe them a debt and we mean to deliver on it.”

Senator Gillibrand emphasized the need for guaranteed health care for 9/11 first responders and survivors: “Our bill provides permanent and mandatory funding for the WTCHP so that no 9/11 hero has to worry about losing coverage year after year.”

Senator Schumer stated, “I am proud to introduce this new bill to permanently fund the 9/11 health program. It will ensure that no first responder or survivor ever goes without the care they deserve.”

Congressman D'Esposito highlighted his experience as an NYPD Detective: “It is vital now that this country does everything possible to support those facing healthcare complications stemming from that fateful day.”

Congressman Nadler noted, “Congress must uphold the promise made to our first responders and survivors by fully funding the WTCHP.”

Congressman Goldman added, "It's our responsibility to pass the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act in order to ensure that those suffering from medical problems arising from the attack receive the health care they need."

Advocates also voiced their support. John Feal called on legislators to act swiftly: “The WTCHP is a lifeline... Not taking this serious is reckless.” Vincent Vallelong of NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association expressed gratitude for congressional leadership: “The SBA is grateful... ensuring that 9/11 responders and survivors will continue to get the care that they deserve.” Phil Alvarez recalled his brother’s plea for legislative action: "On behalf of the Alvarez family, I offer our gratitude."

Established by Congress in 2011 with bipartisan support, WTCHP was reauthorized in 2015 through 2090. Despite securing $1 billion in late-2022 and an additional $676 million in early-2023, anticipated costs still outpace available funds. Without further financial backing, service cuts may be necessary.

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