HARRISBURG, PA — A coalition of 39 state attorneys general, led by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, has called on Congress to take immediate action to address a projected funding shortfall for the World Trade Center Health Program. The program, which has provided vital care to over 135,000 first responders and volunteers impacted by the events of 9/11, is expected to face significant financial challenges as early as 2026.
The program, established under the bipartisan James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, serves individuals exposed to toxic materials around Ground Zero. These men and women, including firefighters, law enforcement, EMTs, and construction workers, are grappling with chronic respiratory illnesses, cancers, and other health conditions resulting from their service in the aftermath of the attacks.
“These true American heroes deserve urgent attention from federal authorities who can ensure healthcare will always be available to them,” Attorney General Sunday stated. “I, like so many Americans, watched the devastation and horror that unfolded following the acts of terrorism on 9/11, and these brave first responders and volunteers off the street ran into hellish conditions to rescue people who otherwise would have perished.”
Despite the program’s reauthorizations in 2015 and 2019, mounting demand for treatment has strained resources. With more than 400,000 individuals exposed to the toxic environment, and one-third already enrolled, the need for sustained funding is critical as many first responders and survivors continue to fall ill nearly 24 years after the attacks.
Attorney General Sunday’s letter to Congress is co-signed by a broad coalition of attorneys general representing 38 other states and territories, reflecting bipartisan support for preserving the program. The letter underscores the moral imperative to ensure that these individuals, who sacrificed their health in service to others, continue to receive the essential care they deserve.
The urgency of Congressional action is clear, as failure to secure additional funding could jeopardize the program’s ability to meet the needs of those still suffering from the health consequences of 9/11.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.