Advocates for the 9/11 First Responders are pushing to stabilize the health program associated with the World Trade Center, which faced significant challenges during the Trump administration.
This week, many survivors and their supporters are set to address a Senate committee, urging the Secretary of Health and Human Services to support this vital initiative.
The underlying issue seems to be a troubling mix of inadequate funding and bureaucratic obstacles, which have particularly impacted cancer patients.
Experiencing a lack of support, these individuals feel lost amid the administrative chaos.
Supporters emphasize that the World Trade Center health program, critical for over 137,000 responders and survivors of the 9/11 attacks, is in dire need of essential funding and a resolution to administrative inefficiencies.
Recently, a highly regarded doctor was dismissed as part of a series of decisions orchestrated by both the White House and the Department of Government Efficiency, although this doctor was later reinstated.
This disruption has, according to supporters, eroded the trust of the hundreds of thousands affected by 9/11.
The program currently serves more than 142,000 responders and survivors nationwide, offering invaluable medical care and research.
“This program has saved lives,” stated Michael Barash, an attorney representing family members of late responders, including James Zadroga.
Earlier this year, approximately 20% of the program’s staff were let go, leading to further delays in services. Subsequently, 16 more staff members, many of whom were experienced doctors, were also terminated.
Despite these changes, advocates claim little has been done to restore their confidence in the system.
Amid efforts by the Trump administration to reduce federal spending, the ongoing disruption continues to be a concern.
Barash expressed frustration: “I really don’t understand what’s happening. We’re not getting clear answers. Yes, [program director Dr. John] Howard might be back, but unless this is a permanent situation, it doesn’t really mean anything.”
He further noted, “We were already lacking in health program support before these cuts.”
The federal agency overseeing the program, Niosh, has identified 69 types of cancer linked to exposure from 9/11. However, organizers reported that, for the first time, no new members were added to the program in April.
Barash highlighted that for those already enrolled, delays in appointments have become commonplace. “It used to take me four months to get in; now it’s eight. In cancer care, every moment counts.”
This week, Barash alongside retired FDNY chief Richard Allen and other advocates will join others in Washington, D.C., aiming to push for stable funding and staffing for the health program.
Allen pointed out that the program is vital for early detection and warned of the negative impact bureaucratic inefficiencies are causing.
“My phone rings off the hook with people worried about losing their care. Many responders suffer from PTSD. Dealing with cancer only adds to their stress,” said Barash.
Supporters believe the program’s issues stem largely from budget calculations tied to consumer price indexes.
Congress is currently reviewing two bills, HR 1410 and S.739, seeking an additional $3 billion to sustain the program.
In a notable moment, Barash recalled that when President Trump signed the 2019 bill to ensure permanent funding for the Victims Compensation Fund, it felt like a significant victory.
“It was a moment to celebrate… But here I am, fighting to save the World Trade Center health program. This issue has always been paramount. I can’t just stand by and watch it erode,” he said.
Supporters express concern that the health of 9/11 heroes is being overlooked, even when the program is presented as bipartisan.
“That toxic dust didn’t distinguish between political affiliations,” Barash stated. “Please, don’t abandon those who rushed into those buildings. Fix this. Now.”
