Rep. Zeldin Statement On 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Report

Statement

Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) issued the following statement following the release yesterday of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund report which stated the fund will need to make severe cuts to compensation awards due to a budget shortfall. Congressman Zeldin has teamed up with colleagues and advocates to champion the Never Forget the Heroes Act, which would permanently extend the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.

"This report is extremely troubling and its findings that it must make severe cuts to awards across the board is completely unacceptable. Regardless of political party, district or state you come from, it is imperative we immediately pass legislation that fully funds the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, which covers all Americans lost on 9/11 and those who stepped up in the wake of the attacks. It covers those who worked on the pile day and night, aiding in the search, rescue and clean up efforts who were breathing in toxic debris and ash that are now known to have caused over 50 different types of cancer. This isn't just a New York issue and this isn't a Democratic or Republican Party platform or political football. This is a responsibility we all shoulder as Americans first and foremost - it's the spirit of our nation, and it's who we are as a people. These were the very men and women who in the face of evil were willing to put it all on the line to help save their fellow Americans, who ran into the towers as everyone ran out."

In the report, the Special Master of the Victim Compensation Fund announced that due to the insufficient funds, the VCF will implement a reduction of awards for claimants across the board, applying a percentage reduction to all awards. All pending claims will be subject to a reduction.

Source