The Senate passed an updated version of a bill on December 22, 2010 which will provide free medical treatment to those first on the scene of the September 11th attacks. The bill will now move on to the House, where is also expected to pass. From there it heads to President Barack Obama's desk to be signed and made into law.
James Zadroga 9/11 Health Bill Named After New York City Police Detective
As reported in CNN.com, New York Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand issued a statement that said the passing of the bill was a "Christmas Miracle" and that they were "pleased to announce that we crafted an agreement that will allow this legislation to pass the Senate, and the House, this afternoon."
The bill, officially called the James Zadroga 9/11 Health Bill after a New York Police detective who died at ground zero, will cost an estimated $4.2 billion over the next ten years. This cost will be split, with $1.5 billion going directly to health benefits and $2.7 billion to compensate responders for loss of income due to health problems.
9/11 First Responders Still Suffering from Health Problems Related to the Attack
A 2010 AFL-CIO report stated that over 13,000 first responders were still being treated for things like respiratory issues, mental health problems, and post-traumatic stress disorder. According to Truth-Out.org, many firefighters and police officers were exposed to "jet fuel, asbestos, lead, glass fragments, and other debris." In addition to the health problems (such as chronic cough and sinus issues) caused by breathing in dust and debris, the mix of chemicals the responders needed to inhale have caused intestinal problems as well.
It appears that over time the number of victims and health concerns has continued to grow. A Mount Sinai Medical Center report indicated "that some 70 percent of the 10,000 workers involved in the cleanup who were tested between 2000 and 2004, now say they have new or more serious respiratory illnesses." What's worse, the health conditions have not been contained to just firefighters and police officers. Construction workers, school children, and even area residents have also reported problems related to 9/11.
Several first responders present at ground zero on 9/11 went to Washington today in an effort to get representatives to pass the bill. One police officer, Glen Klein from New York, said, "We continue to see our friends die on a day-to-day basis." Klein is also suffering from lung disease. He added, "We're asking for the right to live."
Cherie Burbach - Cherie Burbach writes about dating, relationships, health, sports, and lifestyle. She's the author of eleven books and ebooks.
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