A bill to secure funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) has cleared Congress, averting projected service cuts for 9/11 responders and survivors. Now, advocates are awaiting presidential approval for it to officially become law.
Congressman Andrew Garbarino and members of the New York congressional delegation led a bipartisan effort to fix a looming funding shortfall caused by rising healthcare costs and an increasing number of eligible responders and survivors seeking care. Their efforts culminated this week with the Senate’s passage of a budget bill that includes a revised funding formula, ensuring the program remains fully funded into the future.
However, it is important to note that while the bill has passed both the House and Senate, it will not become law unless and until it is signed by President Donald Trump. Until that final step occurs, advocates stress that continued attention and vigilance remain critical to ensure the funding is fully enacted.
The provision passed both chambers of Congress with bipartisan support, led by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer, along with Congressman Garbarino, Speaker Mike Johnson, and Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie. The fix removes the threat of future cuts and provides long-term stability for the WTCHP. Following the vote, Senator Gillibrand emphasized the importance of safeguarding care for the 9/11 community, calling the funding measure essential to ensuring responders and survivors continue receiving the medical treatment and monitoring they have earned through their sacrifice.
Advocates also welcomed the news. Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act praised the bipartisan action, “The new funding formula provides substantially more of the funding for the program that it needs to be able to provide care for the 9/11 community…The impending funding crisis has been averted.”
Pitta & Baione LLP Partner Christopher Baione added, “This funding fix is more than a budget adjustment — it is a promise kept to the men and women who stepped forward on our nation’s darkest day. Ensuring the long-term stability of the World Trade Center Health Program means responders and survivors can focus on their health without fear that the care they depend on will disappear. We commend the bipartisan leadership that recognized this urgent need and acted before cuts could threaten this vital lifeline.”
While this milestone marks a major victory for the 9/11 community, advocates stress that continued vigilance remains essential to ensure every responder and survivor receives the care and benefits they deserve.
“For years, we have seen firsthand how essential the World Trade Center Health Program is to our clients and the entire 9/11 community. Rising medical needs and costs made this correction absolutely critical. This action by Congress protects not only funding, but peace of mind for thousands of families who rely on this program for treatment, monitoring, and dignity. It is a significant step forward, but our work to protect these benefits never stops,” noted Pitta & Baione LLP Partner Matthew Baione.
Pitta & Baione LLP Stands with 9/11 Responders and Survivors
For decades, Pitta & Baione LLP has fought to protect the rights, health, and benefits of the 9/11 community. From advocating for full and permanent funding of the WTCHP to helping responders and survivors get their federal benefits and pursue compensation claims, our firm remains committed to ensuring no one is left behind.
If you or a loved one were affected by the September 11 attacks and have questions about your rights, health benefits, or compensation options, our team is here to help. Call Pitta & Baione LLP today or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
