-- 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, applauds continued efforts to renew the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. According to a September 3rd release from Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (New York-12), she and Congressman Jerrold Nadler (New York-10) and Congressman Peter King (New York-2) gathered with responders, survivors, and advocates at Ground Zero to push for permanent extension of the Zadroga Act. The World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program, which provides medical treatment and monitoring, is due to expire this October. The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), which provides compensation, is slated to expire in October 2016. “The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act cannot be allowed to expire. It is not right that the victims and those who risked their own lives to save others on 9/11 may be forgotten if Congress does not act.” said Congressman Nadler, according to the release.
Parker Waichman comments that a number of responders and survivors depend on Zadroga benefits. “If Congress does not take action to renew these programs, many sick 9/11 heroes will be left without the benefits they need and deserve,” said Matthew J. McCauley, Senior Litigation Counsel at Parker Waichman. “The firm applauds the recent push to permanently extend the Zadroga Act.”
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 their 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.
According to Congresswoman Maloney’s announcement, 70,000 responders and survivors in all 50 states will lose access to benefits if the Act is not extended. “To this day, too many of our 9/11 responders and survivors continue to fight serious illnesses, including more than 60 types of cancer caused by 9/11 toxins,” said Congressman King. “This reauthorization is critical for these individuals and their families. We have come too far and we must continue to ensure that our 9/11 heroes receive the care they deserve.”
The firm comments that many responders and survivors suffer from chronic health conditions as a result of toxic dust exposure during 9/11. “The Zadroga Act’s two programs are an important lifeline for these individuals,” said Gary Falkowitz, Managing Attorney at Parker Waichman. “The benefits must remain open for them and their families.” Mr. Falkowitz pointed out that, “Some responders and survivors may not even be aware that they are suffering from a condition due to 9/11. Unless the Zadroga Act is extended, these individuals will lose access to critical medical care, monitoring, and compensation.”
Parker Waichman continues to fight, alongside Ground Zero first responders, survivors, and their advocates, to help ensure passage of Zadroga Act amendments, and vows to continue its efforts to safeguard these heroes and ensure that they receive all of the Zadroga Act compensation they deserve. To determine compensation eligibility under the Act, and assistance with a claim, please visit Parker Waichman’s website or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).
Release ID: 91163