Permanent Authorization of 9/11 Victim Fund a Major Victory for First Responders, Public Service Workers

WASHINGTON — AFSCME President Lee Saunders issued the following statement after Senate passage of the Never Forget the Heroes: Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act. The bipartisan legislation ensures that the following groups receive full compensation from the fund: first responders, workers injured by toxins during the rescue and clean-up effort who developed certified 9/11 illnesses, and family survivors of these fallen heroes:

“On September 11, 2001, first responders answered the call to protect their neighbors. In the aftermath, brave public service workers of all kinds spent months healing and rebuilding their communities. In doing so, they were exposed to toxins that have led to debilitating illnesses and even death.

“It is indefensible that these men and women should receive anything less than the full compensation they deserve for the sacrifice they have made. Just as we have pledged to never forget those who died on that tragic day, we must not abandon those who showed selfless heroism in the rescue and recovery efforts.

“AFSCME applauds Congress for the bipartisan effort to pass this legislation, preventing this critical program from expiring.”