Representative Adriano Espaillat Votes to Honor 9/11 Victims and Heroes and Pass a Permanent Reauthorization of September 11 Th Victim Compensation Fund Act
Statement
Today, Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) voted to pass H.R. 1327, the "Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alverez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act," which takes long-overdue action to provide the financial security and support that 9/11 first responders, survivors and families deserve.
"On September 11, 2001, America suffered an unimaginable tragedy and witnessed the incredible heroism of hundreds of first responders who rushed into the World Trade Center to save lives," said Rep. Espaillat. "Over the following days, weeks and months, America saw firefighters, rescue workers and first responders -- both from the local New York area and from across the country -- go to Ground Zero and do the dangerous work of debris removal and clean-up. Their courage and dedication inspired us all. In recent years, many of those who worked at Ground Zero have come down with serious 9/11-related illnesses. This bill ensures there will be permanent support for all of the 9/11 heroes and their families -- both those who were there at the World Trade Center on 9/11 as well as all those who risked their lives in the months of clean-up that followed. With today's legislation, a grateful nation pledges our enduring appreciation and unfailing support to all who showed their enormous courage both during and in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks."
This bipartisan legislation extends the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) until 2092, similar to the timeline of the World Trade Center Health Program, and reverses all cuts in compensation for both current and future claims.
"As Members of Congress, it is our solemn duty to ensure that the men and women who risked all in our nation's hour of need receive the care and resources they need, now and into the future," continued Rep. Espaillat. "I am proud to join my colleagues to pass this permanent authorization and reaffirm our nation's obligation to never forget as we honor the service and sacrifice of our 9/11 heroes and their families."
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