Key House Panel Considers Maloney, Nadler, King Bill to Extend 9/11 Health and Compensation Programs for Survivors and First Responders

Press Release

Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee Health Subcommittee held a hearing on the proposed James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act (H.R. 1786), a permanent extension of the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Nearly 14 years after September 11th, thousands of first responders and survivors are still struggling to rebuild their lives, and many continue to battle serious health crises resulting from exposure to toxins at Ground Zero. But the programs established to help them wage that battle are set to shut down by October 2016 unless Congress passes the bipartisan legislation sponsored by Reps. Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Peter T. King (R-NY).

"After the attacks, thousands of Americans flocked to ground zero to aid in the recovery," said Rep. Carolyn Maloney. "Today, people in all 50 states bear the physical and emotional scars of their courageous efforts. They suffer from cancers, respiratory problems, and a range of other diseases related to their exposure at to the toxic soup of chemicals and pollutants at Ground Zero. I applaud Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, Ranking Member Frank Pallone, as well as Health Subcommittee Chairman Joe Pitts and Ranking Member Gene Green for shining a spotlight on these critical programs. Today's hearing is the first step down the long road toward a permanent extension of the Zadroga Act."

"September 11th is a day that remains etched in the minds of all Americans -- a day of loss, of bravery and resilience in the face of unprecedented terror," said Rep. Jerrold Nadler. "Fourteen years after that fateful day, we honor the memories of those who lost their lives and remain vigilant in making sure that the sacrifices of first responders and survivors, who put their own lives at risk in the days, weeks and months that followed, will not be forgotten. The men and women who risked their lives to save others and help rebuild our city deserve our gratitude and support, and Congress must reauthorize the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act to demonstrate our commitment."

"Nationwide, 9/11 responders and survivors are suffering from health conditions caused by their exposure to toxins at Ground Zero," said Rep. Peter T. King. "I am grateful that the House Energy and Commerce Committee has recognized that the programs created through passage of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010 must be extended."

The Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee heard testimony from two 9/11 heroes who urged Congress to extend the programs that are helping people in all 50 states manage 9/11-related illnesses and rebuild their lives.

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