“By including over $70 million in funding for 9/11 health programs, the House has once again recognized the importance of addressing the health impacts the September 11 World Trade Center terrorist attacks. This critical funding, first proposed in the White House budget, will be used to care for first responders, community members and others who are sick.  

“I want to thank President Obama for recognizing the federal government’s responsibility for providing care for those who are sick; the House Appropriations Committee, especially Chairman David Obey, for including the funding in the House’s appropriations bill; and the entire New York Congressional delegation, especially Representatives Jerry Nadler, Carolyn Maloney, Peter King, and Michael McMahon, for their hard work.  I look forward to the provision being taken up in the Senate, supported by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, and seeing the bill presented to President Obama for his signature.  

“These appropriations are vital to keep current programming going, but they do not replace the need for a long-term national commitment to address this problem. It is more pressing than ever for Congress to pass legislation establishing a long-term WTC medical monitoring and treatment program.”