Budget Amendment Addresses 9/11 Health Care Workers Needs
The creation of a reserve fund to address the long-term healthcare needs of individuals who were exposed to the environmental hazards at the World Trade Center during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks was announced by U.S. Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton and Charles Schumer.

"The bravest among us did not think about risks to their safety, they simply did what they knew was needed."

The fund was approved as an amendment to the 2009 budget and was sponsored by the two New York senators, who were joined by Senator Edward Kennedy (D- Massachusetts).

Schumer said the amendment will "lay the groundwork for a comprehensive solution to our heroes' medical problems, and we will not rest until these problems are completely addressed".

"Unlike the [Bush] administration, which continues to turn its back on the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for their country after 9/11," Schumer added, "Congress has stepped up to help those in need."

Clinton noted that on September 11, "The bravest among us did not think about risks to their safety, they simply did what they knew was needed."

"Unlike the [Bush] administration, which continues to turn its back on the brave men and women who sacrificed so much for their country after 9/11.."

But today, she added, "They are debilitated by illness as a direct result of their efforts."

The lawmaker said that while ongoing efforts can address some needs, "We need more intensive medical monitoring for these individuals to understand their illness and ensure comprehensive medical care to meet their needs."

Today's amendment, she explained, "will complement our ongoing efforts in the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee to develop a bi-partisan longterm solution to address the adverse healthcare impacts resulting from 9/11."

- John Toscano