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Parker Waichman LLP, a national law firm that has spent many years fighting to ensure that the heroes of the 9/11 terrorist attacks are never forgotten, comments that benefits should not be limited for responders and survivors suffering from 9/11-related health conditions. The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which provides aid to ailing responders and survivors, will begin to expire this October if Congress does not act.
A Newsday editorial cites the story of Marcy Borders, a bank clerk and 9/11 victim who became known as “the dust lady” after she became the subject of a haunting photo in which she was covered in the toxic dust that was released at the Manhattan Twin Towers’ site. Borders recently died of stomach cancer at the age of 42. Newsday reported that “Stories like Borders’ are all too common. People are dying, from those who fled as the buildings collapsed to those who ran in to help, and the many who worked at the site for weeks afterward. And instead of doing all it can for those who are still living, Congress is making a tragic situation even worse.”
The WTC Health Program, which provides medical treatment and monitoring, is slated to expire in October. The VCF, which provides compensation to ailing responders, is set to end in October 2016. There are Zadroga claimants in every state and in 429 out of the 435 Congressional districts. Over 33,000 people are suffering from 9/11-related conditions and more than 70,000 are being monitored for possible illnesses.
Parker Waichman comments that Zadroga benefits are crucial for responders and survivors. “Many 9/11 heroes are suffering from serious health conditions due to toxic dust exposure,” said Matthew J. McCauley, Senior Litigation Counsel at Parker Waichman. “They should not have to fight for these benefits; they need and deserve them.” “These individuals answered the call for help when their country needed them most,” added Gary Falkowitz, Managing Attorney at Parker Waichman. “It is time for Congress to permanently extend Zadroga benefits.”
Parker Waichman actively worked toward the 2010 passage of the Zadroga Act, including taking part in lobbying efforts and trips to the nation’s capital, often along with the firm’s clients—other responders and survivors.
The firm continues to support the Zadroga Act and remains dedicated to fighting for the rights of responders and survivors. In fact, Parker Waichman was recently involved in the “Take Action” tool that allows responders, survivors, and advocates the ability to review Congresspersons’ activities concerning the upcoming expiration of the James Zadroga Act. Parker Waichman assisted with the research on, and creation of, the Tool, which may be accessed at: Renew 911 Health Organization’s website.
Parker Waichman continues to fight, alongside Ground Zero first responders, survivors, and advocates, to help ensure passage of Zadroga Act amendments, and vows to continue its efforts to safeguard these heroes and ensure all of the Zadroga Act compensation is received. To determine eligibility for compensation under the Act, or for assistance with a claim, please visit Parker Waichman’s website or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).
Release ID: 91325