Carolyn Maloney: “Today, Congress repays a long overdue debt and answers the emergency calls of our ailing 9/11 first responders and…”

“Today, Congress repays a long overdue debt and answers the emergency calls of our ailing 9/11 first responders and survivors. This bill will save lives. It has taken too long, but help finally is here for the thousands of Americans who are suffering because of 9/11. Our bill will give support and hope to more than 36,000 Americans who are ailing because of the attacks on our Nation. It also says to future generations that if you are harmed in the service of our country, you will be taken care of. I couldn't be more proud of everyone who fought like hell to pass this bill, our Senators Gillibrand and Schumer, my good friends and coauthors Nadler and King, the 9/11 responders and survivors who are here with us, and the thousands of their brothers and sisters who could not be. John Feal, you have been a warrior for this bill. Thank you. Just after the attacks, this body came together. With this bill, we put in law that we will never forget and do whatever it takes. Madam Speaker, today, I proudly rise to support the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. Passing this bill and getting it to the President's desk will truly be a Christmas miracle.”