# Pitta & Baione LLP > 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Claim Lawyers > Admin Email: developers--clients@meanpug.com ## Posts ### Pitta & Baione LLP Has Recovered Over $600 Million For 9/11 Victims Excerpt: This milestone represents more than just a number; it reflects the trust of the 9/11 community and the firm’s ongoing commitment to helping responders, survivors, and loved ones secure the support they deserve. ### 9/11 Cancer List ### Pitta & Baione LLP Community Health Services Center Client Relations Manager, Yichun Luo, Partner Lian Kuang-Maoga and Director of Operations, Victoria Clark. CPC Annual Appreciation Reception 2024. (From L to R: Karen Ling, Pauline Lock, Chung Seto, Virginia Kee [Center Front], Jenny Low, Christopher J. Baione, Darrell Low) Excerpt: CPC One brings health, social, and education services together in one place, making it easier for families to get the help they need. ### Vito R. Pitta Named to 2025 Power Players in Public Relations & Lobbying List Excerpt: As co-managing member of the consulting firm Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno LLC, co-managing partner of Pitta LLP, and partner at Pitta & Baione LLP, Mr. Pitta balances a unique range of responsibilities in law, lobbying, and public policy. ### Governor Hochul Signs New Legislation Strengthening Support for 9/11 Victims and Families ### Nearly 50,000 First Responders and Survivors Now Diagnosed With 9/11-Related Cancer Excerpt: According to recent reports, nearly 50,000 people have now been diagnosed with a 9/11-related cancer. This staggering figure underscores the long-lasting toll of the toxic dust, smoke, and debris that blanketed Lower Manhattan in the days and weeks following the attacks. ### Dental Services Under the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) Excerpt: If you are enrolled in the WTCHP and facing cancer treatment, a transplant, or complications from head and neck cancer, talk to your Program provider about your eligibility for dental benefits. ### Pitta & Baione LLP Attorneys Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 Excerpt: Pitta & Baione Partners Christopher Baione & Matthew Baione have been recognized as the Best Lawyers in 2026. ### Are Autoimmune Diseases Covered by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) or the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)? Excerpt: A 2019 study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology confirmed that individuals with high levels of dust exposure were nearly twice as likely to develop systemic autoimmune diseases. ### What Is the Average Compensation for 9/11 Victims? ### What Is the Difference Between the WTCHP and VCF? Excerpt: The WTCHP provides medical monitoring and treatment, while the VCF provides financial compensation for eligible physical injuries and wrongful deaths related to 9/11 exposure. ### 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025 (From left to right) Pitta & Baione Partner Matthew Baione, Senator Gillibrand, President for IUOE Local 94 Thomas Hart, Pitta & Baione Partner Christopher Baione (From left to right) Pitta & Baione Partner Christopher Baione, President for IUOE Local 94 Thomas Hart, Pitta & Baione Partner Matthew Baione at the Capitol (From left to right) Pitta & Baione Partner Christopher Baione, President for IUOE Local 94 Thomas Hart, Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), and Pitta & Baione Partner Matthew Baione Excerpt: On February 26, 2025, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers introduced the "9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025" (H.R. 1410, S. 739) to address the looming funding shortfall of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). ### CDC Reinstates 9/11 Cancer Research Funding and Rescinds WTC Health Program Staffing Cuts Following Backlash ### CDC Budget Cuts: What They Mean for the World Trade Center Health Program ### Congratulations, Yan Lian Kuang-Maoga, on Being Named Partner at Pitta & Baione LLP ### Screening of 9/11 Memorial Short Film: 8:48 https://youtu.be/cxWeP9gHFCQ?feature=shared Excerpt: On January 30, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., Pitta & Baione LLP and Keep Good Company Records hosted a screening of 8:48: A Living Testimony of Life and Loss on 9/11 at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Directed by Kevin Lombardo, the music video/short film features lyrics by Pitta & Baione LLP partner Matthew Baione. ### Pitta & Baione Recovered Over Half a Billion Dollars for 9/11 Victims Excerpt: At Pitta & Baione LLP, we want survivors of the 9/11 attacks to know they have not been forgotten. Our latest milestone is a testament to that commitment: we have now recovered over half a billion dollars for victims whose health continues to suffer as a lasting effect of that tragedy. ### Pitta & Baione LLP Attorneys Honored as 2024 Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” ### 2024 Benefit Fundraiser in Support of 911 Health Watch Inc. ### Continued Costs of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks Act ### Healthcare Support for 9/11: New York Delegation Pushes for Sustained Health Care for Victims ### Expanded Eligibility for Pentagon and Shanksville, PA Responders ### Christopher J. Baione & Matthew J. Baione Named Among U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Best Lawyers: "Ones To Watch" ### New Bill Seeks Permanent Funding Solution for World Trade Center Health Program ### Tax Relief for Victims of Attacks Act: 9/11 Victims ### Dust: Illness and Advocacy After 9/11 Museum Exhibit ### Pitta & Baione LLP Has Now Recovered Over $450 Million In Awards For 9/11 Victims ### Pitta & Baione LLP Has Now Recovered Over $400 Million in Awards for 9/11 Victims  ### Deep Water Horizon Cleanup Workers Suffer 9/11-Type Medical Conditions ### 9/11: Looking Back 22 Years Later ### Pitta & Baione LLP Partners Honored as 2023 Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” ### NIOSH Requests Public Comments on New WTCHP Youth Research Cohort Excerpt: More than two decades ago, tens of thousands of victims were exposed to carcinogenic toxins following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. ### 9/11 Health Watch Asserts MCA-Sedgwick is Missing the Mark ### WTCHP Releases Updated Coverage Details on Dental Services and MGUS     ### Pitta & Baione LLP Has Recovered Over $300M for 9/11 Survivors & Responders ### DOJ Appoints Allison Turkel as New VCF Special Master   ### 9/11 PTSD And Early Dementia In Victims ### VCF to Implement New “myVCF” Claimant Portal Excerpt: As of March 2024, the VCF has postponed the launch of the new myVCF portal indefinitely. ### Uterine Cancer Claims Covered Under 9/11-Related Conditions ### Pentagon 9/11 Responders Denied Access WTC Health Program Benefits ### The World Trade Center Health Program Needs $3 Billion ### 9/11 MGUS? Study on 9/11 Myeloma Precursor ### New York's New 9/11 Laws Simplify Victim's Claims ### 9/11 Exposure Victims More Likely to Suffer from Long COVID ### 9/11 Hero Receives First Ever Double Lung Transplant at Mt. Sinai ### News reporters developing 9/11 illnesses   ### New 9/11 Presumption in Workers’ Comp Law ### Rare Kidney Disease Proposed by 9/11 Responder for 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund  ### Payout of 9/11 VCF Claims Reaches $10 Billion ### Matthew J. Baione: “Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch,” & “Super Lawyers: Rising Star” ### 9/11 Cancer Victims Treated by WTCHP Have Increased Survival Rates ### Pitta & Baione LLP Recovered Over $300 Million For 9/11 Victims ### WTCHP Members May Be Eligible for Reimbursement From New York-Presbyterian Hospital ### WTC Health Program LHI Replacement, MCA, is Reviewed by Congress ### 9/11 Uterine Cancer Closer to a Reality ### NYS Assembly Considers 9/11 Legislation Proposed by Pitta & Baione LLP ### Christopher J. Baione Named Among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Lawyers: “Ones to Watch” and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers ### August Flentje Named VCF Interim Special Master ### 9/11 Toxins Exposure Linked to Genetic Mutations ### Rupa Bhattacharyya Steps Down as VCF Special Master ### Vito R. Pitta of Pitta & Baione LLP – Top Rated Lawyer in New York ### FDNY 9/11 First Responder Dies From 9/11-Related Cancers ### Lian Kuang-Maoga – Super Lawyers Rising Stars 2021 ### WTC Health Program: LHI Replaced ### 9/11 Funding at Risk After Build Back Better Bill is “Dead” ### 9/11 Lawyers at Pitta & Baione LLP Receive Silk Road Ambassador Award for 2021 ### Funding for 9/11 Victims Added in the Build Back Better Bill ### The Road to Establish 9/11 Uterine Cancer ### Logistics Health Inc Loses WTC Health Program Contract ### November 2021 STAC Meeting Concerning Uterine Cancer and 9/11 WTC Claims ### Initial STAC Meeting Considers Inclusion of Uterine Cancer for WTCHP Illness List ### Congressional Support for the Addition of Uterine Cancer as a Qualifying 9/11-Related Illness ### The Difference Between the 2019 & 2020 WTCHP Uterine Cancer Petitions ### Uterine Cancer Recommended for WTC Health Program Covered Conditions List ### World Trade Center Health Program Uterine Cancer Petition ### What You Need to Know About the Recent 9/11 VCF Registration Deadline ### Victim Compensation Fund Registration Deadline Alert ### Victim Compensation Fund Registration Deadline Alert! ### Welcome to Our Blog Series: “The Importance of Meeting the July 29 VCF Registration Deadline” ### 9/11 VCF Claims Process for Those Experiencing Terminal Illness and Financial Hardship ### Join Us in Commemorating the 19th Anniversary of the end of the Relief Operations at Ground Zero ### The VCF Registration Deadline is July 29, 2021: Protect Your Rights and Register Today ### MTA Guarantees Sick Pay for Workers with 9/11-Related Illness… Finally ### 9/11 Attorney Vincent F. Pitta Recognized In New York City and Labor Power 100 Lists ### Are VCF Awards Taxable? A 9/11 Attorney Explains ### VCF Registration Deadline Approaching ### Rep. Maloney, Sen. Duckworth Reintroduce 9/11-Style Fund for Essential Workers ### 9/11 Community Now Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccine ### Will Listing COVID-19 as the Cause of Death Impact a VCF Claim? ### NYPD Sergeant Indicted for 9/11 Benefits Fraud ### COVID-19 Nursing Home Fund Proposed ### VCF Deadlines and Latency Periods ### 9/11 Cancer Claim Deadlines ### Male Breast Cancer FAQs ### Lian Kuang-Maoga Super Lawyer 2020 ### Christopher and Matthew Baione Super Lawyers 2020 ### Understanding VCF Appeals: A Brief Overview ### 9/11 Toxins Present Issue for Proposed Chinatown Jail ### 9/11, COVID-19, and Recovery From Long-Term Trauma ### Governor Cuomo Reconstitutes September 11 Workers Protection Task Force ### 9/11 Responders and Family Members Now Eligible for VCF Benefits for COVID-19-Related Deaths ### Amending Your VCF Personal Injury Claim: Here’s What You Need to Know ### The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund: A Timeline ### What Types of Losses Does the VCF Cover? ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Deadlines Explained ### How Long Does the VCF Claims Process Take? ### September 11th Anniversary: Our VCF Attorneys Continue to Help Responders and Survivors ### VCF Claims and 9/11-Related Lawsuits: What You Need to Know ### How to Prove You Were Present at a 9/11 Crash Site ### Ground Zero Workers Particularly Affected by COVID-19 ### More 9/11 First Responders Expected to Die of COVID-19 than Originally Thought ### New Jersey 9/11 Responder Fighting COVID-19 ### The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Is More Important Now Than Ever ### 9/11 Responders at Greater Risk of Dementia, Studies Show ### 9/11 Survivor, First Responder Benefits for Skin Cancer ### COVID-19 Notice for the 9/11 Community ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Could Serve as Model for Covid-19 Benefits ### Federal Employees Covered by Proposed Covid-19 Compensation Fund ### The Never Forget the Heroes Act — One Year Later ### New Study Shows Link Between 9/11-Related PTSD and Obesity ### 9/11 First Responders at Greater Risk of Cancer, New Study Shows ### Essential Workers Covered by Proposed Covid-19 Compensation Fund ### Study Finds 9/11-Linked Dust Exposure, PTSD May Raise Risk of Autoimmune Diseases, Including Lupus ### Covid-19 Compensation Fund Proposal Details Unveiled ### 9/11 Cleanup Commemoration Ceremony ### Pandemic Heroes Compensation Claims? ### 9/11 VCF: Manhattan Residents Eligibility ### WTC Health Program Issues COVID-19 Guidance ### 9/11 Cancer Rate Spikes by 64% Since 2018 ### The COVID-19 Heroes Fund Senate Democrats Memo ### COVID-19 Heroes Compensation Fund? ### WTC Health Program LHI Coronavirus Update ### 9/11 VCF Coronavirus Coverage? Rep. Nadler Comments ### #HealthcareHeroes Flag by Pitta & Baione LLP ### Coronavirus Compensation Fund? ### WTC Health Program: Coronavirus Update ### 9/11 VCF: Coronavirus Update ### Coronavirus Concerns for 9/11 Community ### 9/11 Head and Neck Cancers: New Study ### 9/11 Leukemia: New Study ### 9/11 Sarcoma Explained ### 9/11 VCF: 2019 Year in Review ### 9/11 VCF Advocate Invited to SOTU Address ### 9/11 VCF Deadline Extended ### What is the WTC Victim Compensation Fund? ### VCF Passes $6 Billion Milestone ### 9/11 VCF and the Public Charge Doctrine ### 9/11 Dust and Lower Manhattan Residents: New Study ### Staten Island 9/11 Lawyers ### Staten Island 9/11 VCF Town Hall at Saint John's University ### 9/11 Lawyers for Lawyers ### Pitta & Baione LLP Partners Christopher and Matthew Baione Selected as 2019 Super Lawyers ### 9/11 Students to Be Contacted About Medical Care ### 9/11 Breast Cancer Spotlight for October ### Number of World Trade Center Health Program Slots Increased to 75,000 After Nearing Capacity ### Uterine and Endometrial Cancer Caused by 9/11 Toxins Exposure? ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund: The Latest Statistics ### VCF FAQs: Updates for September 2019 ### The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Reauthorization: How We Got Here ### On 9/11’s 18th Anniversary, More Recent Victims Get a Memorial ### Naming the Never Forget the Heroes Act: Who Were James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez? ### The Never Forget the Heroes Act: What it Means for You ### 9/11 VCF Deadline Extended to 2090 ### 9/11 Thyroid Cancer Caused by 9/11 Toxins Exposure at WTC ### President Signs 9/11 VCF Bill Into Law ### 9/11 VCF Bill Never Forget the Heroes Act Infographic ### 9/11 Prostate Cancer Linked to WTC Exposure ### Pitta Baione Partner Matthew Baione Testimony on City Council Resolution Supporting 9/11 VCF Bill ### Senate Will Vote on 9/11 VCF Bill Tuesday July 23 ### Senate Vote on 9/11 VCF Bill Blocked by Senators Mike Lee and Rand Paul ### Pitta & Baione LLP Partners Christopher and Matthew Baione Featured in NBC Article ### 9/11 VCF Bill Never Forget the Heroes Act Passed by House   ### Max Rose 9/11 VCF Town Hall on Staten Island July 2 ### Senate Majority Leader Says “Yeah” to Fully Funding 9/11 VCF ### 9/11 Bill Passes House Judiciary Committee ### Pitta & Baione LLP Summer Interns 2019 ### 9/11 Memorial Glade Dedication ### City Council Rally in Support of Never Forget the Heroes Act on May 29 ### Staten Island Council Member Joe Borelli Supports Never Forget the Heroes Act ### House Judiciary Committee Hearing on Never Forget the Heroes Act Scheduled ### 9/11 VCF Bill Co-Sponsored by Ranking Republican on House Judiciary Committee ### Carolyn Maloney Dons FDNY Coat at Met Gala to Support Never Forget the Heroes Act ### 35 Senators Sponsor Never Forget the Heroes Act ### 243 House Representatives Sponsor Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Never Forget the Heroes Act Legislative Update ### Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Alaskan Senator Lisa Murkowski Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Which Presidential Candidates Support the Never Forget the Heroes Act? ### Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan Wars Support Never Forget the Heroes Act ### 9/11 VCF Cuts: No Impact on WTC Health Program ### Who is Cory Gardner and Why Does he Support the Never Forget the Heroes Act? ### Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Pitta & Baione LLP Town Hall at Staten Island Advance on 9/11 VCF and Never Forget the Heroes Act ### Pitta & Baione LLP Partners Attend Never Forget the Heroes Act Press Conference ### Share your Support for the Never Forget the Heroes Act ### SI Rep. Max Rose Sponsors Never Forget the Heroes Act ### VCF Funding Crisis: 50 to 70% Reductions in Compensation Announced ### Founding Partners Christopher and Matthew Baione Selected to the 2018 New York Metro Lawyers Rising Stars List ### Never Forget the Heroes Act to Extend 9/11 VCF Deadline ### 9/11 Breast Cancer Awareness Month ### Coast Guard Eligible for 9/11 Victim Compensation ### National Guard Eligible for 9/11 Victim Compensation ### Pitta & Baione LLP Senior Advisor Sal Cassano on the Joe Piscopo Show ### Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Talcum Powder and 9/11 Toxins Exposure Causes? ### Correction Officers Eligible for 9/11 VCF ### 9/11 VCF Deadline: Time (and Money?) Running Out ### 9/11 VCF: FBI Agents Eligible for Compensation ### 9/11 Male Breast Cancer on the Rise, Why? ### 9/11 Toxins Exposure: 17 Years Later ### Jon Stewart Calls For Extension of 9/11 VCF Deadline ### Pitta & Baione LLP Obtains $3 Million 9/11 VCF Award for 9/11 Cancer Victim ### 9/11 Cancer Rate Approaches 10,000: A 3800% Increase in Five Years ### 9/11 Lung Conditions ### WTC Health Program William Street Clinic ### 9/11 VCF Approaches $4 Billion in 9/11 Compensation Milestone ### Welcome to the Team 2018 Summer Interns! ### 9/11 Colon Cancer and 9/11 Rectal Cancer ### WTC Notice of Participation Deadline Extension Legislation Passed ### 9/11 VCF Deadline: 1000 Days Remaining ### NYCOSH Features Pitta & Baione LLP in Workers' Resource Guide ### New York Telephone Company Fire Anniversary ### 9/11 VCF: Impact of Government Shutdown ### In Memoriam 9/11 Hero Dr. James Melius ### WTC Health Program Opens New Clinic in Long Island ### 9/11 Response by United States Military ### Cuomo Announces Study of Staten Island Cancer Rate ### Staten Island Cancer Rate Highest in NYC: 9/11 and Fresh Kills to Blame? ### Zadroga Champion US Rep. Crowley Introduces 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor Act ### Expanded Unlimited Sick Leave Benefits for 9/11 Responders ### 9/11 Lymphoma and 9/11 Leukemia ### 9/11 VCF Reaches $3 Billion Milestone in 9/11 Victim Compensation ### DNA Testing Identifies 9/11 Victim 16 Years Later ### Pitta & Baione LLP Senior Advisor Salvatore Cassano Honored by City & State ### $2.8 Billion in 9/11 Victim Compensation Paid by 9/11 VCF ### 9/11 VCF Now Requires WTC Health Program Enrollment ### 9/11 Sarcoidosis ### WTC Health Program Celebrates 6th Anniversary ### Pitta & Baione LLP Managing Partner Vincent F. Pitta Receives Humanitarian Award ### Was I Exposed to 9/11 Toxins? ### Pitta & Baione LLP Partner Vito Pitta Speaks at OPEIU Conference ### Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Caused by 9/11 ### Pitta & Baione LLP Obtains $1.95 Million 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Award ### Staten Island Memorial to Honor Responders Affected by 9/11 Illnesses ### Jon Stewart's "Were You There" Event for 9/11 Health and Compensation ### Neuropathy Caused by 9/11? ### 9/11 Compensation Deadline Extended for Deceased ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Deadline Extended On September 13, 2016, the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) announced extended deadlines to file for 9/11 victim compensation. Now, claimants must register for compensation within two years from the date upon which a government entity certifies a condition as being related to 9/11. Unless, and until, a government entity certifies a condition as being related to 9/11, a potential claimant's time to register for compensation does not begin to run. For example, if an individual was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2006, and informed by the WTC Health Program that the condition is related to 9/11 in 2016, then they have until 2018 to file for 9/11 victim compensation. Under the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, potential claimants for 9/11 victim compensation are required to register within two years of the date on which the claimant knew or reasonably should have known: (1) that the victim suffered physical harm as a result of the terrorist-related aircraft crashes of September 11, 2001, or debris removal in the immediate aftermath, and (2) that the claimant was eligible to file a claim with the VCF. Prior to the newly announced deadlines, the VCF declared the start date of the two-year deadline to register for 9/11 victim compensation as the date on which an illness or condition was first diagnosed. The VCF's prior rule caused great distress for individuals who suffer from a 9/11-related illness, but were never informed that the condition was in fact caused by 9/11. In response to concern expressed by potential claimants for 9/11 victim compensation, and 9/11 victim compensation attorneys including Pitta Giblin & Baione LLP, the VCF extended the deadlines. Now, the two-year deadline to register begins on the earlier of: (1) the date on the letter from the WTC Health Program indicating that the individual's 9/11-related physical injury or condition has been certified for treatment, or (2) the date on which another government entity determined that the physical injury or condition was 9/11 related. For individuals who are not members of the WTC Health Program, the two-year deadline to register begins on the earlier of: (1) the date on which a government entity determined that the physical injury or condition was 9/11-related, or (2) the date on which the individual's physical injury or condition is verified through the VCF's Private Physician Process. With regard to families or representatives of individuals who unfortunately succumbed to their 9/11-related illness, they must register for compensation within two years of the victim's death, or two years from the date on which the condition was added to the WTC Health Program List of Covered Conditions. For example, as detailed in our recent blog post, new-onset COPD was added to the list of covered conditions effective August 4, 2016. If an individual passed away due to new-onset COPD on or before August 4, 2016, then the family or representative of that individual would have until August 4, 2018 to file for compensation. However, it should be noted, that irrespective of other applicable deadlines, all claimants for 9/11 victim compensation must register by December 18, 2020. What is 9/11 Victim Compensation? 9/11 Victim Compensation is available through the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). The VCF provides tax-free financial compensation for pain & suffering, lost earnings, benefits, replacement services, and past out-of-pocket medical expenses related to eligible 9/11-related physical conditions. Eligible claimants include those who were in Lower Manhattan, Staten Island Fresh Kills Landfill, or on routes of debris removal (piers, barges, garages where vehicles were cleaned) between 9/11/01 and 5/30/02. Founded by the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act of 2001, the VCF was intended to protect the aviation industry from thousands of potential lawsuits related to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. After 33 months, 5,560 paid claims, and over $7 billion in 9/11 victim compensation, the VCF was closed. The original VCF compensated those injured in the 9/11 attacks, and families of lives lost. However, as we now know, the terrorist attacks did not end on 9/11. Rather, they continue inside the bodies and minds of thousands of Americans. It has recently been reported that the 9/11-related cancer rate has tripled in less than two and half years. Further, Dr. Jim Melius, Administrator of the New York State Laborers' Healthy and Safety Fund, predicts “Within the next five years we will be at the point where more people have died from World Trade Center-related illnesses than died from the immediate impact of the attacks." Since 9/11, over 75 types of cancer, aerodigestive disorders, and respiratory illnesses have been linked to 9/11 toxins exposure. In 2002, The New England Journal of Medicine published a study of 332 firefighters led by Dr. David Prezant identifying a new condition, "World Trade Center cough." The condition is characterized by a prolonged, severe cough accompanied by shortness of breath. Dr. Prezant's study also found that the vast majority of firefighters suffering from World Trade Center Cough also suffered from gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), or persistent heartburn. In 2006 Detective James Zadroga became the first member of the New York City Police Department to die due to 9/11-related respiratory disease. Zadroga's name became a rallying cry on behalf of all individuals who were exposed to 9/11 toxins, or WTC dust, after 9/11. After a long-fought battle by uniformed and non-uniformed trade unions, political allies, and community leaders, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act was signed into law on January 2, 2011. The Zadroga Act reopened the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund, allocated $2.775 billion for 9/11 victim compensation, and provided for the World Trade Center Health Program. Due to expire in October of 2016, the Zadroga Act was reauthorized thanks to the efforts of union coalitions, activists, and years of relentless advocacy by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer; and Congress members Carolyn Maloney, Jerrold Nadler, and Peter King. The reauthorization extended the WTC Health Program through 2090, the VCF until December 18, 2020, and allocated an additional $4.6 billion in 9/11 victim compensation. What is the World Trade Center Health Program? The World Trade Center Health Program is administered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (“NIOSH”) as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”). It provides free medical monitoring, treatment, and medication for physical and psychological illnesses to responders and survivors who satisfy certain eligibility criteria. Healthcare is offered at Clinical Centers of Excellence (“CCE”) located throughout the NY/NJ metropolitan area: Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, North Shore-LIJ, Stony Brook, Rutgers University Robert Wood Johnson, Bellevue, Gouverneur, and Northwell Hospital. Memorial Sloan-Kettering is also an in-network provider for WTCHP cancer patients. FDNY members and retirees are treated within their own system, primarily at 9 MetroTech Center in Brooklyn. Those located outside the NY/NJ metropolitan area have access to the National Provider Network (“NPN”) administered by Logistics Health Inc. (“LHI”) that provides free healthcare at a vast network of clinics nationwide. Why are 9/11 benefits still available fifteen years later? As explained in our recent blog post, although fifteen years have passed since 9/11, the health effects of exposure to toxins spewed into the environment on that fateful day continue on. Between 300 to 400 tons of asbestos were introduced into the environment on 9/11, in addition to a host of other carcinogenic 9/11 toxins. Dr. Michael Crane, director of the World Trade Center Health Program’s Clinical Center of Excellence at Mt. Sinai, commented on the issue “We will never know the composition of that cloud, because the wind carried it away, but people were breathing and eating it. What we do know is that it had all kinds of god-awful things in it. Burning jet fuel. Plastics, metal, fiberglass, asbestos. It was thick, terrible stuff. A witch’s brew.” Specifically, there were as many as 50,000 personal computers, each of which contained a variety of toxins including four pounds of lead and troubling amounts of mercury, and 300 mainframe computers powered by hundreds of miles of wires containing polyvinyl chloride (PCP) and copper. There were 23,000 mercury containing fluorescent light bulbs and 12,000 miles of electric cables in the Twin Towers alone. The 16-acre site contained 10,000,000 tons of building material and contents, which burned at temperatures close to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit along with 91,000 liters of Jet Fuel and 130,000 gallons of transformer oil. Yet, despite the incredible amount of 9/11 toxins that were spewed into the air, just days later, Christine Todd Whitman, former Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, announced “I am glad to reassure the people of New York and Washington, DC that their air is safe to breathe.” Unfortunately, we now know that Whitman’s statement was woefully inaccurate. Whitman recently offered a qualified apology for misleading the public after 9/11. Over 500,000 people were exposed to toxins on and in the months after 9/11, yet only 20% have enrolled in the WTC Health Program. Despite the shockingly low enrollment rate, WTC Health Program statistics are still alarming: As of July 2016, there has been over 1,140 exposed deaths attributed to 9/11-related illnesses, and there has been over 6,378 separate cancer diagnoses in the past two and a half years alone. Due to the fact over 400,000 people are left unaccounted for, the actual death toll of 9/11-related illnesses may already be higher than the number of lives lost in the attacks. The WTC Health Program has linked the following List of Covered Conditions to 9/11 toxins exposure. This list is subject to change as the Health Program Administrator, Dr. John Howard, and the Scientific/Technical Advisory Committee continue to review research, statistics, and studies in order to identify new conditions for coverage. Cancer Blood and Lymphoid Tissue (including, but not limited to, lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma) Diffuse non-Hodgkin lymphoma Follicular (nodular) non-Hodgkin lymphoma Hodgkin’s disease Leukemia of unspecified cell type Lymphoid leukemia Malignant immunoproliferative diseases Monocytic leukemia Multiple myeloma and malignant plasma cell neoplasms Myeloid leukemia Other and unspecified lymphoid, hematopoietic, and related tissue Other and unspecified types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma Other leukemias of specified cell type Peripheral and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma Digestive System Colon Esophagus Liver and intrahepatic bile ducts Other and ill-defined digestive organs Rectosignoid junction Rectum Retroperitoneum and peritoneum Stomach Eye and Orbit Eye and adnexa Female Breast Ovary Head and Neck Accessory sinuses Base of tongue Floor of mouth Gum Hypopharynx Larynx Lip Nasal cavity Nasopharynx Other and ill-defined conditions in the lip, oral cavity, and pharynx Other and unspecified major salivary glands Other and unspecified part of the mouth Other and unspecified parts of the tongue Oropharynx Palate Parotid gland Piriform sinus Tonsil Respiratory System Bronchus and lung Heart, mediastinum, and pleura Other and ill-defined sites in the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs Trachea Skin (Melanoma and non-Melanoma) Malignant melanoma of skin Other malignant neoplasms of skin Scrotum Soft Tissue Other connective and soft tissue Peripheral nerves and autonomic nervous system Thyroid Thyroid gland Urinary System Bladder Kidney Other and unspecified urinary organs Prostate Renal pelvis Ureter Mesothelioma Aerodigestive Disorders (Airways and Digestive Disorders) Asthma Chronic cough syndrome Chronic laryngitis Chronic nasopharyngitis Chronic respiratory disorder—fumes/vapors Chronic rhinosinusitis Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (“GERD”) (persistent heartburn) Interstitial lung diseases (e.g., sarcoidosis) Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS) Sleep apnea exacerbated by or related to another condition described in the list of aerodigestive disorders Upper airway hyperreactivity WTC-exacerbated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) New-onset COPD Mental Health Conditions (ineligible for compensation) Acute stress disorder Adjustment disorder Anxiety disorder (not otherwise specified) Depression (not otherwise specified) Dysthymic disorder (persistent depressive disorder) Generalized anxiety disorder Major depressive disorder Panic disorder Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Substance abuse Musculoskeletal Disorders (Responders only) Responders who received treatment for a WTC-related musculoskeletal disorder, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or lower back pain, on or before September 11, 2003 are eligible for coverage. Acute Traumatic Injury  Responders and survivors who received treatment for a WTC-related acute traumatic injury on or before September 11, 2003 are eligible for coverage. Examples include: Eye injury Burn Head trauma Fracture Tendon tear Complex sprain Rare Cancers Malignant neoplasms of the adrenal gland and other endocrine glands and related structures Anus and anal canal Bone and articular cartilage Breast among men Gallbladder and other parts of biliary tract Meninges, brain, spinal cord, cranial nerves, and other parts of central nervous system Pancreas Penis and testis Placenta Small intestine Thymus Vulva, vagina, and cervix uteri (invasive only) Malignant neuroendocrine neoplasm, including carcinoid tumors Myeloid neoplasms, including myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative neoplasms, myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms, and myeloid malignancies associated with eosinophilia and abnormalities of growth factor receptors derived from platelets or fibroblasts Other cancers that meet the threshold incidence rate of less than 15 cases per 100,000 persons per year based on age-adjusted 2005-2009 average annual data. Top 10 Certified Conditions Rhinosinusitis GERD Asthma Sleep apnea Respiratory disorder PTSD Cancer Depression WTC-exacerbated COPD Anxiety disorder Top 15 Certified Cancers Non-melanoma skin Prostate Lymphoma Melanoma of skin Thyroid Lung/bronchus Kidney Breast Colon Leukemia Bladder Oropharynx Myeloma Rectum Stomach   For more information, contact Pitta & Baione LLP at 844-982-2667 or info@pittabaione.com.   ### 9/11 Disability Registration Deadline Extended ### 9/11 Conditions Cause Job and Income Loss ### $2 Billion in 9/11 Victim Compensation ### 9/11 Toxins Exposure: 15 Years Later ### 9/11 GERD: Most Common 9/11 Illness ### Zadroga Advocate Schumer Sponsors Cancer Registry Bill ### 9/11 Cancer Diagnoses Triple in 2 1/2 Years ### Chinatown 9/11 Health Seminar ### Christopher Baione in World Journal on 9/11 Benefits ### Christopher Baione in New Tang Dynasty TV on 9/11 Benefits ### Vincent Pitta and James Molinaro Named in 'The Staten Island 50' ### Pitta & Baione LLP Featured in Staten Island Advance ### Christopher Baione in Sing Tao Daily on 9/11 Benefits ### Chinese Chamber of Commerce NY Press Conference on Zadroga Act ### Christopher Baione in News India Times on 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Now Accepting New Claims ### WTC Health Program List of Covered Conditions ### 9/11 Responder Denied Compensation Pleads for Help ### Christopher Baione in The Chief Leader on 9/11 COPD ### Rupa Bhattacharyya Appointed 9/11 VCF Special Master ### 9/11 VCF Special Master Sheila Birnbaum Steps Down ### Zadroga Advocates Gillibrand and King Introduce Bills to Help Responders ### $1.8 Billion in 9/11 Victim Compensation ### World Trade Center Health Program Covers 9/11 COPD ### 9/11 Tribute Center Announces Expansion ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Pays Over $1.5B and Announces Updated Rules ### 9/11 Victim Compensation $1 Billion Milestone ### John Zaremba Featured in LaborPress ### World Trade Center Health Program on LaborPress ### World Trade Center Health Program Hires SUNY Professor ### $180 Million for NYC Anti-Terrorism ### SI Natives Help Raise $100K for Families of Fallen Heroes ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Pays $1 Billion to Claimants ### World Trade Center Health Program Public Meeting ### Rockland County Recognizes Fallen 9/11 Responders ### Benefits in Jeopardy for EMS 9/11 Responders ### Partner Vincent Pitta Receives 2016 Ellis Island Medal of Honor ### Governor Cuomo Announces Continued Benefits for 9/11 Volunteers ### 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Quarterly Report ### Vito Pitta and Christopher Baione LaborPress Interview ### Senator Gillibrand Reminds 9/11 Victims of Tax Benefits ### 9/11 Medical Examiner Dies at 79 ### World Trade Center Health Program Denies Neuropathy Coverage ### The Reauthorized James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act ### 9/11 Compensation Payments First Round ## Pages ### 9/11 Notice Act ### 9/11 PTSD Lawyers ### Precancerous Conditions from 9/11 ### Resources ### Staff ### General Staff ### Founders, Advisors, and Attorneys ### Attorneys ### Advisors ### Partners ### Thank You ### Eligibility video explaining the current enrollment numbers for the world trade center health program (WTCHP) ### Covered Cancers & Conditions ### Contact Us ### World Trade Center Health Program ### Victim Compensation Fund ### Home Page ### Blog ### About Us ### Uterine Cancer ### Terms of Use ### ### 9/11 Benefits for Students ### 9/11 Benefits for Residents ### 9/11 Benefits for Volunteers ### 9/11 Benefits for Teachers ### 9/11 Benefits for Construction Workers ### 9/11 Benefits for Clean-Up Workers ### Benefits for Deceased Loved Ones ### 9/11 Benefits Extend to People South of Houston Street https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv74nDUnrlc&t=1s ### Stomach Cancer  ### Pulmonary Fibrosis  ### Multiple Myeloma  ### 9/11 Leukemia  ### Depression ### Burns ### Proving Your Presence at a 9/11 Site in Order to Receive Benefits  ### 9/11 Male Breast Cancer ### 9/11 Prostate Cancer ### 9/11 Colon Cancer Attorneys ### Brain Cancer ### Sarcoidosis ### Lung Cancer ### The Claims Process for 9/11 Compensation ### Disability Benefits from the VCF ### Eligibility for 9/11 Survivor Compensation ### Information for Responders ### Important 9/11 VCF Deadline ### 9/11 Toxic Dust Exposure Zones ### Neuropathy ### Muskuloskeletal Disorders ### Mental Health Conditions ### Acute Traumatic Injuries ### Digestive Illnesses and Injuries ### Asthma & COPD ### Lung Diseases ### Mesothelioma and Asbestos Related Diseases ### Urinary System Cancers ### Thyroid Cancers ### Soft Tissue Cancers and Sarcoma ### Skin Cancers ### Respiratory Cancers ### Cancer of the Reproductive Organs ### Rare Cancers ### Head and Neck Cancers ### Eye and Orbit Cancers ### Digestive System Cancers ### Childhood Cancers ### Breast Cancer ### Bone Cancer ### Identifying 9/11 Cancer Claims & Illness ### Appeals and Amendments ### The Importance of Hiring an Attorney ### Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages ### VCF Cancer Awards and Other Benefits ### The Zadroga Act ### 9/11 Lawyers for the Chinatown Community ### Sitemap ### Remembering 9/11 ## Local ### Washington, DC ### Albany ### Manhattan ## Team ### Richelle Conefrey ### Angus Saunders ### Sana Rehman ### Samantha Schumacher ### Jennifer Cabrera ### Aja Ward ### Danli Zhou ### Yuanping Xiao ### Yichun Luo ### Yibing Wang ### Yanfang Huang ### Tori Lupia ### Lihua (Shirley) Liang ### Patrick Hewes ### Lixuan Ren ### Kyle Gordon ### Jiamin Li ### Franchesca Castillo ### Delphine Su ### JiaXin (Carman) He ### Bernice Ng ### Victoria Clark ### Steffany Polanco ### Sidrah Syed ### Yan Lian Kuang-Maoga (Lian) ### James Molinaro ### Salvatore J. Cassano ### Matthew J. Baione ### Christopher J. Baione ### Vito R. Pitta ### Vincent F. Pitta ## FAQs ### What is the average compensation for 9/11 victims? ### Does the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) cover mental health issues? ### Can I change or transfer my World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) treatment location? ### How do I make an appointment with the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### Are over-the-counter medications covered by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### Do I have to travel to New York City for treatment by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### Will the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) cover the treatment of non-covered conditions associated with my certified 9/11-related conditions? ### Does the World Trade Center Health Program provide dental health benefits? ### How do I update the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) about my newly diagnosed condition? ### Is there a research element to the World Trade Center Health Program? ### What healthcare benefits does the World Trade Center Health Program provide? ### How do I know if I’m enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### Does the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) replace my current health insurance? ### How much does the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) cost? ### Are there any World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) deadlines? ### Do I need a lawyer to enroll in the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### How long will World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) medical monitoring, treatment, and medication benefits be available? ### Who manages the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### Can I choose my WTCHP treatment location? ### Where is the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) located? ### Will a VCF award affect my government benefits? ### How do I check my VCF claim status? ### Will a VCF award affect my disability payments? ### How much can you earn from the VCF? ### How long do VCF claims take? ### When does the VCF close? ### Are there VCF deadlines? ### Do I need a lawyer for the VCF? ### Is the 9/11 VCF still open? ### Will the 9/11 VCF run out of funding? ### How are VCF awards paid? ### How much money is left in the VCF? ### Is it too late to file a claim? ### Do I need to appear in person to file a 9/11 claim? ### How much are lawyer fees for 9/11 claims? ### Are uterine cancers covered by the WTCHP and/or the VCF? ### What is the WTCHP “NYC Disaster Area”? ### Is the 9/11 VCF only for first responders? ### Can I file a VCF claim on behalf of a deceased loved one? ### Can I file a VCF claim if I filed other litigation related to my 9/11-related illness? ### Can I file a VCF claim if I participate in the JASTA lawsuit? ### Why are psychological conditions not covered by the VCF? ### Does the VCF cover psychological conditions? ### Where is the VCF “NYC Exposure Zone”? ### Who is eligible for the 9/11 VCF? ### Are respiratory conditions still covered? ### Are autoimmune diseases covered by the WTCHP or the VCF? ### What are some common 9/11-related cancers? ### What is the difference between the VCF NYC Exposure Zone and the WTCHP NYC Disaster Area? ### Which conditions are covered under the Zadroga Act? ### Do I need to enroll in the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) to be eligible for the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)? ### Are psychological conditions, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression covered under the Zadroga Act? ### What is the National Provider Network (NPN)? ### What is the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)? ### What is the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)? ### What is the relationship between the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)? ### What is the difference between the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)? ### What is the “Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act”? ### What is the Zadroga Act?