Revised 9/11 Health Bill to Provide Health Coverage for Those At-Risk for Mesothelioma Passes Senate, Now Back to the House
The Senate approved the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act after severe cuts and compromises were made to the original proposal. The $7.5 billion that had been earmarked for the first responders was cut to $4.3 billion. This bill provides health benefits and compensation to many of the rescue workers that are at risk for asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and respiratory disease, from inhaling the noxious cloud of dust at Ground Zero.
Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and contributes to other respiratory diseases. The affects of asbestos are typically not evident for decades after exposure with most cases of mesothelioma diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure. This could be the focus of further debate when the bill returns to the House for passage. One of the compromises made is that the legislation would close the victims’ compensation fund in 2016 instead of 2031 as initially proposed.
Senator Tom Coburn (R-OK) had been in opposition to the bill due to cost concerns. He said, “Every American recognizes the heroism of the 9/11 first responders, but it is not compassionate to help one group while robbing future generations of opportunity.” Coburn, who is also a medical doctor, approved the revised bill that will also take into consideration the workers’ compensation payments when determining benefits that victims would receive for injuries or ailments from the events of 9/11.
Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, New York Democrats who co-sponsored the bill, believe this is a step in the right direction saying, “The Christmas miracle we’ve been looking for has arrived.”
The proposal now goes to the House where they are scheduled to vote on it before adjourning for the year.
