WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) applauded Senate passage of legislation to permanently reauthorize and fund the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). The fund provides compensation for anyone who suffered physical harm or was killed as a result of the terrorist-related aircraft crashes of September 11, 2001 or the debris removal efforts that took place in the immediate aftermath of those crashes.

“18 years later, we’re still recovering from the horrific 9/11 attacks on our country. As we remember the lives we lost that day, we also must never forget the victims and first responders suffering from illnesses they contracted in aiding our response and recovery,” said Murphy. “They answered the call and were there for us. Passing the Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund means that we will be there for them, in perpetuity. I’m proud to join my colleagues in finally sending this bill across the finish line.”

“This strong bipartisan vote – long overdue – answers the needs of brave heroes who answered the call after 9/11. In contrast to the delay in Congress, the 9/11 responders went to Ground Zero without a moment of hesitation – and without asking what toxic damages lay there, eventually causing so many unspeakable suffering and death,” said Blumenthal. “Hundreds of survivors and families in Connecticut and all around the country will finally see simple justice. Their sacrifices never should have taken so long to recognize or required them to plead with Congress. I was proud to help lead this fight and will continue to work for 9/11 compensation fund justice.”

The VCF has already approved 22,323 claims for survivors and their families for physical injuries as result of their involvement in Ground Zero, including exposure to toxins. According to the most recent September 11th Victim Compensation Fund report, there have been 322 claims filed by individuals currently living in Connecticut, with 136 individuals currently in Connecticut already receiving funds.

“On September 11, 2001 firefighters, police officers and others rushed into the towers - 343 firefighters lost their lives that day.  But since then many others have been lost, and in the years ahead untold others will suffer from cancer and other health ailments directly connected to their service in lower Manhattan,” said Peter Carozza, President of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters of Connecticut. “Finally, Congress has acted - thanks to the diligent dedication of advocates, Senators Blumenthal, Murphy and their colleagues, our 9/11 responders can count on a permanent fund to compensate them for any disease or harm suffered during their humanitarian service.”

Blumenthal and Murphy both helped fight for passage of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act in 2015, which made the World Trade Health Center Program permanent and reauthorized the VCF through 2020. However, due to an increase in claims, the VCF would have quickly run out of money and been forced to slash benefits without passage of today’s legislation.

 

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