On the recordJuly 12, 2019
We are here today to have the backs of our first responders, especially those who stood up to terrorists that morning and ran directly into the burning buildings on 9/11 and stayed for the weeks and months that followed. They are our heroes, and they need our help. Hundreds of New Jersey and New York law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and others answered the call and rushed toward the pile as others ran out. If you ask how they were able to summon the courage, they will tell you they were simply doing their job that day. And Congress now has the opportunity to do ours. Too many first responders are still suffering from illnesses and cancers from 9/11 exposure to toxins, smoke, debris, including too many people who are still suffering in my district. Congress set up the Victim Compensation Fund to help cover 9/11 injuries and medical expenses. Those who were exposed back in 2011 are, sadly, first developing symptoms now. More than 47,000 claims have been filed with the fund, and more than 11,000 district claims are expected by 2020, when the fund is set to expire. We must act today. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in support of the bipartisan H.R. 1327, Never Forget the Heroes. I thank Chairman Nadler, Representative Carolyn Maloney, and Representative Peter King for their leadership and the Problem Solvers Caucus for strongly supporting it.…
