In my country, Canada, those brave men and women would have been cover by their provincial health care plan (in Ontario OHIP). They would have been spare the anguish and the stress of not knowing if the government will help them or not. And if part of their care would had not been cover by the Government health insurance, the Government would have set up program to cover it. It is disgusting to see your politicians (especially Republicans) dragging their feet to help them. As Jon Stewart said so well those 11 September's heroes took only 5 seconds to answer the call of duty. Politicians took millions or billions (I lost count) of seconds to do their jobs.
1
Hallelujah !! Does ones heart well to see the Government "Do the Right Thing" for our 1st Responders ! 3 Cheers for Jonathan Stewart's compassion & commitment to See this Thru ...
There is a photo circulating (I saw it on Reddit) of Jon's Stewart's face after the announcement that the 9/11 First Responder's bill passed. The sheer joy on his face said it all...
1
Shameful that this was even an issue. These people risked their lives responding to a national emergency. Sad, but that is today’s repubs...denying care to first receivers, denying affordable healthcare and prescriptions, not to mention being against affordable life
Conservatives have always been on the stingy side, but today’s repubs are on the cruel side, even tolerating children in cages and racism.
So this is my question. In the past I had several fireman (first responders) who were good friends that I shared an apartment with for several years. During that time I learned that they had a very good benefits program that included health insurance, and also tax free disability insurance. As I understood it from them, if they sustained any injuries or medical problems related to their job that caused them to be considered disabled and unable to continue on in their job, they would continue to be fully covered by their medical coverage, and receive disability payments for life. If this is the case, then exactly what is the 9/11 bill for?
Trump's strategy is clear and appears to be working: he and his cohort of supportive attorneys (many of whom won their spurs defending the mafia) will simply tie up all the law suits against him in court, and delay, delay, delay, until the law suits are moot because Donald Trump will be out of office. The Trump who follows him as Preisdent (his daughter Ivanka?) will then pardon him.
And once again, the Trumps will evade prosecution for their blatant crimes.
1
The Republicans throw around words like “patriotism”, “courage”, “accountability”, “honor”, and “sacrifice”. When it’s time to demonstrate those things, they need to be dragged on to the carpet kicking and screaming. It’s infuriating how full of it they are.
4
Jon Stewart.
Sir:
For not the first time: "please run for office."
You have more intelligence and decency than virtual all of the Senate.
And especially Messrs. Lee and Paul.
3
WHat's the profile of the First Responders? What's the criteria for being considered as part of this is group? What the fewest number of hours worked to be able to be included? Who kept those records of hours worked?
1
Paul and Lee are demonstrating the classic "have the tea party cake and eat it too" by becoming Trump's Stepford wives but still wanting to burnish their Tea Party credentials.
2
Their reluctance to do what is right for our in this case even though they were not in the military they are nonetheless veterans and in the USA we have ALWAYS without exception let them down or rather our Congress and Senate make it point to let them down. Why do our "leaders" hate us so?
1
Rand Paul is right about one thing. He doesn't have a "good conscience."
3
Jon Stewart for President. Too bad he won't run. Too sad there aren't more like him.
Rand, you voted for the 2017 tax cut without funding it. Your neighbor had your number.
3
Did Putin advise Trump to endorse this initiative to help the 911 responders because it makes good propaganda? Meantime Trump will meanly shut down the government again at the end of the fiscal year on 9/30 and is eviscerating medical care for hundreds of millions in the USA.
2
Why is it so difficult for a politician to exhibit any humanity? When faced with tragedy, who were the first to run into the towers? I didn't see Giuliani. I didn't see Clinton. Yet "America's Mayor" should I laugh knew how to ride the coattails of these brave men. As for Lee and Paul using the word parasites is too generous. Thank You Jon Stewart for exhibiting the courage to take on anyone that stood in the way of the taxpayers taking care of these men!
3
@John
If you're talking about Hillary Clinton, she was there for NYC, and pushed for funding for the heroes and victims of 9/11 while in the Senate. Trump did nothing but brag about the height of his building, took money he (allegedly) didn't need, and reneged on pledges to contribute.
2
Jon Stewart has been advocating for 9/11 responders for over a decade; even had them on the Daily Show a number of times.
He didn’t just lend his name to this issue, or read prepared statements. He has been incredibly passionate and forceful.
“They did their job, now you do yours!”
Thanks to Stewart, they did.
You did good. Thank you.
8
Mitch sounds like a guy slipping in the polls. Otherwise he would have never granted a cent for health care, for anyone.
What these heroes have in common with millions of Americans is a pre-existing condition. The kind that Obamacare covered and Mitch, trump and the GOP have tried endlessly to repeal.
7
Mitch McConnell needs to be put out to pasture along with the rest of the GOP. They are disgraceful.
24
Special interest sympathy is never a good idea.
Mitch McConnell actually moved a bill through the Senate? I’m assuming the bill must have a rider condemning everything the Obama admin did with a fat payout for Mitch’s Family.
Some people might say we should send Mitch and his wife back to Shenzhen. Not me. I don’t agree with that.
7
Thank you first responders and all who lost their lives on such a tragic day.
Is it strange that the US government has never fully tasked Saudi Arabia’s ruling elite for possible complicity?
9
It is shameful that it took this long for Congress to act, but considering how Congress has failed our nation's military veterans in their health care we should not be surprised. And of course the Congress is not willing to pay for either--just put it on the nation's credit card with more deficit spending that is largely financed by and payable to foreign states. Can we believe how great we have become?
4
Why are there so few minorities among the First Responders?
1
@amy people died trying to save others and people who are living with cancer because they tried to save others are dying. Now is not the time to bring in Identity politics but to help these people and be thankful that these people have someone like Jon Stewart on their side
7
Has anyone asked Mr Stewart how much he is being paid for his appearances for this Fund?
1
Shame on Senators Paul am Lee. I am at a loss for any printable words that they would vote against this bill.
4
15 of the 19 9/11 hijackers came from Saudi Arabia. Will Saudi Arabia be contributing to this fund in order to make recompense for what their people did?
9
The photo of Jon’s face as Mitch walks by is just priceless.
8
Can I assume that of the billions spent so far on doing and giving everything possible for these people who deserve everything and all ...that in terms of the costs of medicines and hospital stays and so forth....that the large and in many cases huge profits that are so much a feature of American Health Care...were reduced or provided at cost to the fund and concerning the monies supplied (and will be supplied) in treating these first responders?
Or were the only real contributions by these corporations and businesses just in providing their services and reaping the extra windfall that came their way and added to their yearly profit results?
I sure hope not but suspect otherwise has been the case.
4
Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader whom Mr. Stewart and other advocates recently targeted as an “impediment” to the measure, was one of the first senators to give the bill a thumbs-up. In a floor speech on Tuesday, he recalled how a group of emergency workers gave him Mr. Alvarez’s badge when they went to Capitol Hill to urge a vote on the measure.
“Congress can never repay these men, women and families for their sacrifices,” he said. “But we can do our small part to try and make our heroes whole.”
--------------------------------------------------------------
Wanna bet this will show up in a campaign re-election ad for perhaps the most crass, craven, destructive person in D.C....
12
I wish Jon Stewart were not referred to as a comedian. In this role, he is an activist. Once he was a comedian, and he might again be one, but in this role he isn’t telling jokes. I find it demeaning for him to be labeled that way. Jon Stewart, social activist.
17
The fact that it took more than 17 years after a Tragedy which led to the deaths and horrible burdens imposed on first responders and their families from and since (and for years to come) it was only TODAY that finally, the support they should never have had to fight for and needed would ever conceivably have been an issue or problem at all.
Yet 17+ years until today it was and has been.
And no Politician today should think they deserve an iota of thanks, respect or credibility for a vote that should never had needed a vote to happen.
In the more enlightened countries of this World what Today by Congress will now be assured and finally given would have been a given BEFORE 9/11 had even happened.
And something American Politicians need to not just think about Today...but from now on, in
If any disagree with that thinking or concept...they should leave now.
I wish.
4
Seems NYC planning department has some guilt to bear here: Approved the structural design of buildings each of which was taken down within an hour with one 767 hit. Something terribly wrong with the architectural designs and those who approved the engineering of the plans.
Nonetheless, shouldn't NYC be responsible for the healthcare of these first responders, not American taxpayers?
4
@Alice's Restaurant
Seriously? When there is an earthquake or wildfire in California, don’t ask the federal government for money. Don’t ask “American taxpayers” for help. Let California take care of it.
1
I mean the bill should really go to Christine Todd Whitman who proclaimed the air quality safe just days after the attacks because it was very important that we all get back to shopping like the song says,
"We got to move these refrigerators, we got to move these color TVs!"
6
Thank you and gratitude to all the first responders that ran head on into a situation on 9/11 that few of us would have had the courage to do. I applaud these men and women for their service to the nation on a very dark day. And now many of them are paying the price for their service. They all deserve to be taken care of. And a big stuff it to Sens. Rand Paul and Mike Lee. Two GOP frauds that all of a sudden worry about where the money will come from and legislation which is unfunded. Guys, how about that tax cut you both gladly voted for? Wasn't that meant to pay for itself? Where is your angst and hand wringing over our 22 trillion dollar national debt and a yearly deficit approaching a trillion dollars?
3
The people who gave their well-being and their lives deserve this unlimited funding.
Those who attempt to defraud this program should be dealt with severely.
4
When the towers went down there were lots of non government employees helping for along time. Do they get help? The government employees kicked them off the job after the hard work was done.
1
Interesting that this isn't a New York State issue and that the fed gov is footing the bill.
1
@mons
For years I, too, have been baffled as to why this is an issue for the U.S. Congress. Why were first responders exempt from the provisions of New York State workers' compensation laws, requiring a bailout by Washington?
So if you got sick fighting an ordinary fire on September 10 you’re not worthy of healthcare for life? I find it sad that “help” is portioned only to those hurt in a historic and momentous event. What difference does it make where and when an emergency responder suffers injury? All emergency workers — dare I say all people — deserve healthcare and support for the entirety of their lives.
7
@Joe Sazerac
Agree. Schumer-Steward con job?
3000 people perished on 9/11 including essential services personnel.
But the total claims seems to be 22,400 (paid already) + 17,600 (under review) = 40,000.
How did the claims count reach that level ?
Are lawmakers, public and press being emotionally manipulated?
I'm glad, at least the Republicans are scrutinizing the claims now amounting in the billions !
1
@Jagan The claims are not for (or not only for) those who died at the time of the attack, but for the first responders who rushed in to save others, sacrificing their own health in the long run, but who survived the collapse of the towers. And others who worked tirelessly for days and weeks at Ground Zero to find remains, clear the site and the surrounding neighborhood, help the families who stood vigil. These folks have lived with the effects of breathing in toxic smoke, handling debris and dust and ash etc. Those are the bulk of the claims...an ever-increasing number of cancer sufferers (and other ailments) among the New Yorkers who responded in those first several days and are now dying; and benefits for their families for whom the impact has been ever present since 9/11. This is not a Republican or Democrat issue. This is a human issue. There is no manipulation. Maybe consider it similar to veterans' lifelong benefits.
7
Actually 2996 not 3000 died. It’s important we honor their memory with the correct numbers.
2
It’s about time!
8
Currently on front page of Lexington Herald Leader: "9/11 first responders win Senate OK for health benefits as Paul votes no."
Currently on front page of Louisville Courier Journal: "Rand Paul votes against 9/11 first responders' bill."
Next time Rand's neighbor decides to beat him up again, sure hope the first responders take their sweet time getting there.
12
Two senators voted against the bill, Rand Paul and Mike Lee. Rand Paul wanted the money to be offset by spending cuts. Too bad he didn't have a spine when Trumps's tax cut was voted on. And Mike Lee doesn't care if the people who the fund is for see their payouts dwindle because he wanted it capped.
Two men who deserve no respect.
15
Isn’t there some political office Mr. Stewart could run for? Smarts and compassion - we need more of that.
4
“to whom much is given, much will be required”
Thank you to Jon Stewart for dedicating so much to bring this issue to the fore and fight for this conclusion. He could have made cute quips in front of a camera at prime time. Instead, he used his fame and money and time to write, call, shout, explain, demand and advocate for our first responders. That’s what America means to me. You identify a problem and fight to make it right. He loves his country, he criticized his country and changed his country for the better.
13
Kudos to photographer Anna Moneymaker for a very touching picture.
7
THANK YOU, Jon Stewart and each and every first responder and family.
6
Thank you Jon Stewart. You are a true American hero!
5
My late wife lost one uncle killed in a fire. She had relatives that were and some still police and firefighters. They were lucky they were not exposed to the cancers and other illnesses from Ground Zero. Her uncle who died in the line of duty had gone into the building to make sure everyone was out and all his men. On 9/11 and after all those heroes did not debate or discuss, but went trying to save as many as possible. I have no use for Rand Paul from a state that sucks out $40 billion more than they put into the federal coffers nor Lee. This nonsense about caring about the debt is bogus they did not care about the giant tax cut and if Paul wants spending cuts lets cut the money to Kentucky, but of course according to him that is different. I wonder if this was not just spite to stick it to people in a Blue state, in other words nothing to do with funding just petty nastness. People who put their life on the line to help others. Paul and Lee should look not just at the men and women, but their families and what each goes through. The Trade Centers were made of asbestos deadly material and other materials that we have come to know the damage that is done. The two should look in a mirror at themselves and hopefully never show up in NYC. Jim Trautman
20
The two senators who voted against the measure should be ashamed of themselves. Hopefully their lives will never hang in the balance at the mercy of a first responder. Because I KNOW they will do the right thing...more than we can say for Lee and Paul.
13
Thank you Mr. Stewart! You are a decent man doing the most decent thing!
7
God bless our first responders.
And God bless Jon Stewart.
14
Certified 9/11 first responder here. I'd like to point out to my fellow first responder friends, many of whom are die hard republicans and conservatives, that 14 Congressmen voted against this bill, 13 of which were Republican and one independent. And while conservatives like to believe that Republicans are more pro law enforcement, firefighters, etc., truth is they disdain working people, and this is further evidence of that. I hope you all remember this come election day.
69
Rand Paul and Mike Lee should have a few of New York's finest visit their state when they are up for reelection and remind people of their votes. Shame on them. Kudos Jon Stewart and all of the brave men and women who were there when we needed them.
15
We ask people to take risks we would never either have the courage or desire. Their rewards are few.
Come all ye young children so young and-so fine
Seek not your fortune way down in the mines
It’ll form like a habit and get into soul
‘Till the blood of your body runs black as the coal.
6
It's so rare in these times that we can celebrate together.
But this, all people can celebrate. I'm proud of our government on this issue. I'm so proud of those that served at Ground Zero. They are the best of what this country is and can be.
This legislation shows how we must find common ground to remind us of how important the "experiment of American Democracy", is. To us as Americans, and to the well-being of this world.
1
We ask people to take risks we would never either have the courage or desire. Their rewards are few.
Come all ye young children so young and-so fine
Seek not your fortune way down in the mines
It’ll form like a habit and get into soul
‘Till the blood of your body runs black as the coal.
Our colleague’s father, a 9/11 fire fighter lies in a hospice dying from his second cancer. But I bet these 2 senators will be voted again.
13
Jon Stewart and the heroes of New York and the 9/11 attacks... really moves me so deeply. I lived in New York during the attacks, Giuliani Time and the aftermath. Mr. Stewart utilizes his agency and with such depth of heart and integrity that I am so inspired to see that even after so long a battle against an adversarial Congress and a 'constipated' Rand Paul that dignity and fortitude can still win!
I am so damn moved by Jon Stewart right no, and will forever send my best wishes and blessings to my New York First Responders! All blessings always!!
15
Really, the only reason this happened is because Jon Stewart has a loud voice. Thank you, Jon
21
Every police station, fire house and hospital in The United States should post notices for all to see that Senators Paul and Lee voted against healthcare funding for the brave men and women who risked their lives to save the lives of their fellow Americans during and after the darkest day on American soil since Pearl Harbor. They claim to stand on high moral ground because this bill is not offset by spending cuts elsewhere. I bet they never stood on that hollowed ground after 9/11. I bet they didn’t watch in person as those towers fell and smoke rose from the ashes for days after. I bet they never held their family, friends and neighbors, sobbing and consoling one another over lost loved ones. If they had, they would have voted yes today. They may have forgotten, but the citizens of New York City will never forget.
18
@Dabney L The 9/11 attacks were not just on New York City; they were on all of us Americans. And no American should ever forget the despicable votes cast today by Rand Paul and Mike Lee. Both have been strong supporters of tax breaks for people and corporations that don't need them, but they would deny 9/11 first responders basic health care.
Neither is up for re-election until 2022. We have short memories these days, but let's try, really hard, not to forget what these two morally bankrupt "civil servants" did today.
14
Worried about the debt, GOP lawmakers? Repeal that gift-to-the-richest tax cut you passed last year. Somehow there's always a reason to cut taxes for the rich, but no reason to care for true heroes, unless the publicity gets really bad.
27
So if this environment was so toxic what about all the people that worked in the towers for all those preceding years and decades? Are they at risk too?
@Sparky
Once the environment was unsafe and toxic the office workers went home and never came back. The first responders showed up everyday after to find survivors. They inhaled chemicals and particulates that ruined their health. I guess they could have quit that week and gone off to work for some other department in some other town. But they didn’t. They saw the job to it’s completion. Now our job is to return the favor. If you disagree, I hope some day when a first responder saves you or someone you love you’ll see they won’t hold this against you.
2
@Sparky The toxicity arose from the burning of the environment...asbestos, metals, paints, furniture, insulation etc. in the aftermath of the attacks...and it smoldered and burned and sent smoke into the neighborhood for days.
2
with Mr. Paul explaining on Twitter that he could not “in good conscience vote for legislation which to my dismay remains unfunded.”
Well, that's all you need to know about Randal.
Say, Randal: How is that tax cut from 2017, the one YOU voted in favor of, how does that remain funded? I mean, since you voted yes on it, it must be funded? Right?
16
Kentucky, please succeed from the union. Your voting records indicate you all are anti-American.
19
9/11 created thousand of heroes that we promised we would support forever. A heartfelt thank you to all of you and your families for sacrificing so much.
It also spawned the longest war the US has ever engaged and continues to this day at a cost of trillions of dollars, borrowed from foreign governments and future generations of US citizens.
The GOP endlessly pedals the theory that they are the party of patriots, but when push comes to shove, they are always found lacking. Shame on Rand Paul and Lee for delaying this meaningful bill, they certainly had no problem with the disastrous Trump Tax Bill - no offsets needed there !!
Its time America developed a spine and got rid of every GOP con man who pretends to love the country, the constitution, and life. They are determined to destroy the world so their enablers get their tax cuts.
They know no shame.
20
Jon Stewart will make one fine Senator!.
20
Thank you, Jon Stewart. It is reassuring to know there are still good people out there.
12
Great news for the first responders. You would think this would negatively impact on the support that law enforcement has for the GOP. However, I’ve seen this play out differently in my short lifetime.
5
@Bklynnupe
No, it won't change a thing. Authoritarianism is what it is. Police unions will still vote regressive.
8
It’s speaks volumes about the current state of our politics when a prime/time comedy personality has to appear before a congressional committee and shame lawmakers into “ doing their job”.
What has happened to our Republic?
Thank you Jon Stewart.
(Stewart/2024?)
14
I'm so glad this bill finally got passed. Even gladder still that $10 billion will be spent towards a greater good rather than disappearing into some contractor's pocket to sate a dictator's wall fetish.
7
Or to build another detention center for children
1
Worried about where the funding for the 9/11 first responders can come from Mr. Paul? Maybe you could get it from the Wall Street 1%ers who were being saved by these brave patriots. My God, sir, have you no compassion?
25
Trump hugs the flag at his rallies but he had two years to pass this funding for first responders and there was no interest.
Why you ask? Because New York, DC and Virginia didn’t vote for him. Our president is spiteful and mean and only the president to his voters - remember that
27
To the 2 so-called United States Senators that voted no today: that's a bold move. Let's see if it pays off.
9
They are from Kentucky. So no.
6
I have it on exceptionally sound authority that if the FAA had not acted so quickly in grounding ALL commercial air travel in US airspace on 9/11, planes would have been enroute to Chicago and LA with similar devastating results as seen in NY and the Pentagon.
That being said, I am extremely grateful for all of the men and women who worked tirelessly in their efforts to help save and rescue people in and around the crash sites. They worked for hours and days and never tired of the task at hand. In the end, so many of them ended up with life threatening and terminal illnesses.
At the very least, we as a nation, owe them and their families whatever financial compression is required to meet their challenging needs.
A sincere and heartfelt thanks to those who gave their lives, who continue to fight for their lives, and for those responsible in getting this legislation to the White House for final approval.
This is what America should look like and stand for when we are all on the same page, with the same goal - helping other Americans when they are at their most vulnerable.
15
If we had to have a TV star as president, I would have much preferred Jon Stewart. In fact, I'd be thrilled if Jon was president.
What a difference a good heart makes.
What happened to the first responders is a national sin. A Republican EPA chief said it was A-OK to be down there without respirators. That, to me, is criminal. All of us knew what was in that rubble was toxic. But a president, a mayor, an EPA chief - all Republican - said it was safe.
Criminal.
May they all have as many good days as possible.
30
I'm a cynical and hidebound retired police officer, but when I watched Jon Stewart, I was very moved.
Thanks, Mr. Stewart.
32
The one thing made clear in this entire episode is that only deep shame will move the GOP to do what they don't want to do and even then it probably won't work. Money not going directly into a profiteers pocket is a waste as far as they're concerned.
These days the GOP considers a person with two jobs somebody who still works for Raytheon and is also our new Secretary of Defense. They are no longer embarrassed by this overt corruption. It's SOP.
13
For those who wonder why this fund is being set up, why aren’t you equally upset over taxpayer dollars being spent on black lung disease treatment? The government did not encourage these miners to work in the mines (as they did with the 9/11 first responders) but no one questions they’re deserving of our handout.
41
@JWyly
Organize, Prioritize, & Execute.
@JWyly - A common respirator prevents miner's lung disease, just like a hard hat prevents the damage of being bonked on the head by a falling object.
2
I hope those brave people don't have to fight for those benefits like us Veterans have to...Then again.....
3
One more reason for Mike Lee and Rand Paul to be ashamed to show their faces in public. But, hey, shame? How quaint.
11
Jon
Please come back to your old show temporarily and help America to get rid of Trump. You can go back to retirement right after the election.
7
This would not be an issue if we all had healthcare like the civilized world does.
https://emcphd.wordpress.com
11
Hey NYFD and NYPD it would be nice if you remembered who got NYS $26 Billion after 9/11 and who managed to weasel $150K from a 9/11 business fund. Remember the party who really loves the US!
2
Congress is worried about the deficit and falling government revenues? Huh...strange, they, especially the Republicans, didn't seem too concerned about any of that when they approved a huge tax cut benefiting the top percentile of the wealthiest Americans. But when it comes to the people who rushed in to help on 9/11, all of a sudden spending restrains are a problem to be considered...
11
Thank you to all of New York’s first responders who gave everything (in many cases their lives) to help our country during the unimaginable terrorist attack of 9/11. You were and are brave beyond measure. And thank you to Jon Stewart for showing all of us that you don’t need to wear a uniform to be a hero.
127
$10 billion. It would have been cheaper to just tell people to stay away from the The Pile or hand out masks. The EPA and its leader, Christine Todd Whitman, knew the air was bad. Real bad. This was a supreme failure on the part of the government.
6
I’m a 9/11 attack WTC survivor. My neurological conditions keep worsening; I was afraid of Parkinson’s or Essential Movement Disorder, but my friend, who is an MD and has seen the progression from micro-seizure to neuropathy and paresthesia to movement disorder believes it’s caused by the long-term exposure to toxic dust. Now, off to the neurologist at great expense to me—neurological conditions are not certified by the WTC Health Program and thus not covered. According to my contacts at the WTC Health Program, thousands have these symptoms yet all petitions have been rejected. I have three peer-reviewed papers showing correlation and causality, so I will petition Dr. John C. Howard, MD, head of the WTC Health program through the CDC, in the hope that I, and others like me, may receive appropriate treatment.
So, I’m happy this passed. Perhaps I and others like me can get the treatment we need.
15
I am truly sorry for your condition, but the difference between you as a victim, and them as a responder is they were running in as you were running away.
2
@I’m In
I was not running away. I went back every day for over a year.
2
This bill is *estimated* to cost over $10 billion over the next ten years, and authorizes "whatever necessary" until at least 2090. I, and I believe Rand Paul, want to do all we can to help people who responded on 9/11. But it is not responsible to vote for something like this-more than neglecting 9/11 first responders, you're neglecting common sense.
2
“Do all you can to help these people”? That is sort of like “thoughts and prayers” isn’t it? Show me the money not empathetic feelings.
9
@Humbly Yogurt
So you want to do "all you can" to help ... as long as it doesn't cost too much.
We owe more than we can ever tangibly repay to these folks, and $1B a year is frankly not much in an almost $4T budget. It's a fraction of the 1%ers permanent tax cut.
2
To the few nay-sayers about the amount of benefits (averaged per worker and family): Not all workers were NYFD and NYPD, who do receive benefits for a death or injury while on duty. Remember, 9/11 was an attack on the US; those who worked on the enormous area with the toxic debris, searching for remnants of this who were killed were clearly exposed to damaging fumes and others from, for example, jet fuel and the after-effects of two huge buildings’ collapses.
I would like to point out that the American diplomats’ families who were killed in the two attacks on our embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were not compensated until they argued before Congress, following 9/11, that they should also be recognized for compensation. In this instance, families lost their major breadwinners, as have the families of the dead and dying 9/11 workers.
Really?? You’ll quibble over the amount this settlement will add to the deficit??
15
Once again Rand Paul proves himself truly a disgusting fiend, who fights for what would be noble things (like strict constitutionality) in the absolute worst and most flame-baiting ways and in the least appropriate times possible.
At least dad Ron seemed consistent and reasonable about his libertarian bent (until he semi-hypocritically used a UN agency against a fan site that used his name in its domain, after his presidential run). I used to like Rand somewhat, but he's since proven he's a far-wrong GOPer, perhaps consistent but in no way reasonable, and Congress would be better without him.
16
Any first responder who is thinking of voting Republican needs to realize how opposed to this spending McConnell was. He had to be shamed by the wonderful Jon Stewart into letting it pass.
47
It's sad you have to "earn" healthcare by running into burning buildings.
How about Healthcare for all regardless of whether you are a first responder
179
Get a job that provides healthcare rather than depending on the welfare state.
4
@Simon
Oh, ok.
9
@Simon only in America, right? You know that, right? And do you know why health insurance falls on the shoulders of companies? Because most illnesses and injuries used to happen to people while they were working. Coal mines, Sinclair Lewis’ “The Jungle,” etc. Read, lad.
21
Why seven decades of funding? The youngest first responders must be almost 40 years old now. Are they expected to live to 110, especially given the health problems caused by their heroic work?
5
@Bob
In 70 years, they're all expected to be dead. The whole point was to ensure that they're covered for their entire lives, because of the late onset of some cancers/diseases. Liver cancer and lung cancer don't show up in tests immediately after you've inhaled asbestos dust.
15
@Bob
Many people who lived near the WTC were children when the towers were hit. Many pregnant women lived and worked near the towers. Many first responders were women who were pregnant. Don’t these now young adults deserve compensation too.
11
I believe the House passed the bill with 12 voting no. For sure I know Rand Paul and Mike Lee (who suddenly began to worry about the budget) voted no. Ilhan Omar voted yes. So if you are a Republican vote money for the wealthy. But don’t give any support to first responders who rushed into almost certain death during an attack on our country. If Paul is so worried about money maybe he should quit contributing to the $106 million dollar Trump golf tab.
28
So, if I worked on the Pile or lived downtown at 20 years old (average age was much higher), I would now be 48 years old. I’d now have a fund that will last another 70 years or when i’m 118.
Also, most ‘victims’ claim diseases which any normal person outside the area can and do catch. Nearly every health issue is covered and there is no....no...way to say if most were caused by the incident.
No regard if the fireman, cop worker smoked or other risk factors.
This now amounts to fraud aided and abetted by those who are afraid of being painted by insensitivity.
4
@Ace
You're not being painted as insensitive. You're being painted at best as ignorant of the facts.
The fact is that the EPA evaluated the air quality, and told workers it was safe. It wasn't. That's why most did not wear the appropriate protection in these areas. The incidence of cancers and breathing conditions is significantly greater than the rest of the population.
So you can believe they're lying or scamming you, or you can look at the facts.
26
The head of the EPA, Christine Todd Whitman, admitted she was wrong when she reassured the public and first responders that the air was safe.
8
48 years old?
3
It's has always been a puzzling and disgraceful part of the American character that we can well up with tears at the sight of 'Ole Glory' and yet turn our backs on the selfless men and women who serve our country.
Since the lawmakers who had to be shamed into extending these benefits represent us, we share their dishonor.
We need to stop the hypocrisy towards the 9/11 responders, our veterans and serving armed forces, police/fire/EMT, let's give them all more than lip service.
19
This is going to be like the asbestos fund. Expect television ads from sleazy law firms saying you might be entitled to a cash award if you were near Ground Zero. Now that the mesothelioma cases are winding down, this will be the next goldmine for lawyer who advertise on TV.
1
@Rick
Rick, this bill is a medical billing carte blanche. The doctor just has to say ‘whatever’ was likely caused by 9/11. There is no test or certainly. Why ours any doctor risk the wrath of these readers and unions and media. You don’t need a lawyer, you need a location you’ve been to
1
What a shame it took Jon Stewart to get Congress to do their jobs! Aren't +250,000 letters from ordinary citizens enough?
I cringe each time a celebrity etches out a political win like this.. We also have Kim Kardashian and Kanye in the White House telling Trump which black convicts to exonerate.
The power of people means nothing in the grand scheme of things and here's the order of importance for any politician:
1. Corporate Lobbies
2. Mega Donors
3. Celebrities
4. Religious Groups
6. Ordinary Citizens
11
@Aaron
Actually, you should just remove ordinary citizens from the list all together. A recent study suggests politicians don't actually care about ordinary citizens at all. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/11/opinion/politicians-voters.html
1
Trump and the Republicans will turn their followers against the 911 responders. They have made the base love Russia, spit on McCain, and now they will hate the responders.
7
The disease care industry thanks all the senators as well. $10,200,000,00 guaranteed! Any and every malady is now hereby caused by 911.
2
You seem to have something against Americans receiving tax funded health care. Do you know that the USA is the only first world nation on the planet that does not provide free health care?
2
John Stewart is a hero.
23
These brave people are true, selfless American heroes. They deserve our gratitude and our support. The fact that two GOP Senators, Paul and Lee, were willing to hold it up (claiming it would bust the budget!) while they were happy to vote for a tax cut for big corporations and the 1% which will increase the deficit by $1,000,000,000,000 is beyond disgusting. This is the sort of GOP hypocrisy and callousness that have become the party's trademark.
Thanks to Jon Stewart without whose constant support and publicity this never would have happened. Better late than never but so many responders have perished and suffered while waiting. When Paul and Lee want something done (like a budget-busting tax cut for the wealthy), they want it now. When others who deserve our respect and support are suffering, they don't care. They are a disgrace to this country.
24
I don’t know what is more disgusting: That it took this long for the Senate to do the right thing, or the hearty round of applause they gave themselves when the funding measure finally passed.
Mike Lee and Rand Paul? Shame. On. You.
Jon Stewart? Thank you for being the voice that finally got these true heroes noticed, and got them the help that they desperately need and rightly deserve. It’s sad that it takes a celebrity to bring lawmakers to their senses. But whatever gets it done.
206
@MDB Well, time to vote for more Millenials into congress like AOC. I am almost as tired of the feckless Democrats than I am of the rabid racist Republicans. Or the millions of Americans who don't vote and just rot on the sidelines.
18
@Daniel
I agree. AOC's strength and honesty is a breath of fresh air.
And Mike Lee and Rand Paul both voted for the tax reform bill that blew up the deficit. No shame.
23
Rand Paul is an absolute fraud
Rand Paul voted for the Trump tax cut which added $1.5 trillion to the deficit but not for first responders.
33
It should never have taken this long. Shame on republicans for blocking it. These heroes have given their lives to save others and all republicans can think is that money is going to a blue state - it’s a bargaining chip for them. Republicans don’t care about anyone including their own constituents-
Vote blue no matter who.
12
Rand Paul and Mike Lee-a Sean Hannity show favorite, have disgraced themselves and disgusted us all with their opposition.
13
Every individual who labored long and hard for this legislation to be passed and signed is a hero. No one worked in a vacuum. I am so dang proud and grateful to each and every person who helped keep this legislation alive and moving forward.
I think this is one of those gallant victories in which there is plenty of thanks and appreciation to go around.
10
First, thanks to Jon Stewart and his tireless work so these brave men and women can receive the help they deserve. Whatever they receive will never repay them for their sacrifice.
The First Responders Fund should not be a political issue. It's a moral issue. And because it is a moral issue, Trump should not have a huge ceremony when he signs the bill. Unless he's willing to have Stewart present at the signing.
10
This had better get signed by Trump. Everyone suffering illnesses generated by the events of 9/11 sacrificed their health for the greater good. These are people we need to take care of, as a nation, above nearly any other group. Seventy years will suffice to cover health problems which can still appear later.
It's baffling that people like Rand Paul can claim that this expense is something we should avoid, when another example of programs we could reduce is our nuclear missile stockpile, which costs fifty times this program's amount.
15
Have any of the 300 first responders who committed fraud to extract compensation from this fund, paid any of it back yet?
Have there been any new criteria set for preventing this fraud from happening again, and taking from those who actually need it?
2
Don’t conflate two different issues. It’s beneath you
7
Maybe someone here can explain to me something I have never understood about how the benefits of this fund interface with the benefits provided to FDNY and NYPD under city benefit plans.
One of the reasons we New Yorkers pay such high city income taxes (in addition to state and federal income taxes) is to protect our beloved first responders, who by and large can retire after 20 years at any age, earlier on a triple tax free disability pension if they are disabled, and get lifetime medical benefits for themselves and their families. So are there things these plans aren't covering that need to be covered by this federal plan. If so, why? Why would their negotiated city benefit plans not cover 9/11 related illnesses? On the other hand, if the federal plan duplicates some of the things covered by their city benefit plans will the city get a rebate (personally, I would be very happy to see federal taxpayers at large take on some of this burden).
I know there were people involved (or working close to) the 9/11 cleanup who were not NYPD or FDNY and may not have such generous benefit plans to cover any illnesses they are suffering, but clearly this bill was designed to cover the NYPD and FDNY "first responders." Just look at Rep. Carolyn Maloney, who has been wearing a firefighter's coat for goodness knows how long.
Anybody familiar with the ins and outs of this?
8
With Medicare for All these questions would never come up. In every other first world nation on the planet free health care is provided. And has been for decades. People in every other first world nation don’t quibble about paying for health care.
Do you have any idea what fire fighters do? Do you know any fire fighters? Do you know any who are still disabled and sick from 9/11? Why don’t you talk to a fireman.
1
@Zejee Yes I know what firefighters do. My grandfather was one (a captain). And one of his brothers was also a firefighter who died in service. And i I had an uncle who was a detective. I think they would all be amazed to know that NYC firefighters and cops get the exceptionally generous benefits packages they do nowadays-- with healthcare better than many corporate plans and pensions in the $100,000 - $200,000 range (and even more for officers who got a lot of overtime in the year following 9/11 for work on the "pile," which greatly enhanced their pensions under the FDNY pension plan "final pay" formula).
BUt I still don't understand how this new federal fund interfaces with the NYC benefits.
Republicans voted for a $1 Trillion tax cut for the wealthy, who were already the richest 1% of people in the world, with no hesitation. They signed that bill so fast they got friction burn on their hands.
But they’re mad that 9/11 first responders are getting $10.2 Billion to cover medical expenses for health conditions caused by exposure to toxic chemicals while working ground zero for days following one of the worst terror attacks on US soil.
Says everything you need to know about the Republican Party.
28
@Austin Ouellette You’re argument does not stand. There were more republicans who voted for this than Democrats. There are more republicans in the Senate. All but two are happy this has passed. Generalizations will backfire, my friend.
1
10 billion divided by 22,000 claims is 500,000 dollars per claim.
1
@Craig
You seem to be implying that that is a lot of money for each claim. Forgive me if I'm wrong.
We're talking about ruined lives and Deaths of mostly young healthy people. $500,000 is far too little for the sacrifices they made.
10
Sounds right to me.
We can use this vote as proof positive that in their uniquely Republican amnesia, Senators Lee and Rand do not care about the victims of 9/11; they seem to have forgotten and ignored the depth of their sacrifice or at least again proven they value money over all else. When it suites their desires and their constituents, these two are proud to ignore their fiscal conservatism, only to double back down on it when there are needs—like disasters and terrorist attacks—that fall outside of their districts. Senators Lee and Rand should be ashamed—but we know they’re smugly proud—of turning a blind eye to the first responders of 9/11 today. History will judge them poorly. They’re happy to pass a tax cut to favor the wealthy without a Congressional pay-for, but suddenly they need CBO approval and justification to approve health benefits for 9/11 first responders. It just goes to show they don’t want anyone to have health benefits in this country.
8
Watch Trump get a photo shoot signing the legislation, claiming this was all his idea! Ugh......
8
@MIMA: And he'll hold up his signature like a three year old saying, "Look what I can do, mommy!".
3
Let's not forget for a second that these men and women had to come begging on their knees for money they were promised from day one amid the destruction of 9/11.
Of course, if these heroes would have been a corporation, Congress would have tripped over themselves showering them with money and tax breaks.
American politics at it's most disgusting.
238
@Decebal As a Canadian, I am amazed to see that it took almost 20 years! Unbelievable!
2
We needed a comedian to speak sense into democratically-voted Senators to approve funding for one of the WORST tragedies USA has ever had?? Got it!
11
Captioning Jon Stewart as a 'comedian' is like calling Secretariat a 'horse.'
25
Finally, should have been done long ago. Shame on Paul and Lee, you have no honor.
11
The voters of Kentucky must feel so proud that their super patriotic senators made sure to vote for a tax bill which gave their handlers a huge American sized discount going forward. All the while blocking health care for middle class emergency service crews who were victimized by terrorists on 9/11. America. And they will win re-election again and again. Thanks Kentucky.
13
Will this same Congress take away their food stamps?
6
McConnell, once again, proving he is a spineless coward. Equally shameful response from Lee and Paul, but this entire issue was an issue because of McConnell and the power he wields over Republicans in the Senate. Don't forget that.
Thankfully a small set of influential people took up the cause or these heroes would have been left out to dry permanently.
8
The House should give Jon a congressional medal for his perseverance in aiding these men and women.
10
It would be accurate to say how pathetic Congress has become with Senator McConnell with a tight chokehold on our Democracy and the achievement of any significant legislation, and the President grabbing at it to abuse or milk profit from it. Jon Stewart and every single Democrat that wrote their congresspeople, called them endlessly, demonstrated and cared about their friends, relatives and fellow Americans that just would not give up deserve the credit. Nobody needs to ask why the Firefighters Union has already come out and endorsed a Democrat for President.
11
Money for tax cuts and the Pentagon - those grow on trees! Money for people who rushed into collapsing buildings to save their fellow Americans - THAT needs to be offset by cuts.
Next time Rand Paul or Mike Lee have the audacity to question anyone's patriotism or love of country - remind them of this shameful vote!
199
@George T.
Your tax dollars payed for Rand Paul's medical treatment after he was attacked by a neighbour. Maybe you should make Senators crowdfund their medical care from now on so they can see how it feels.
20
@George T.
it is about time. they didn't say anything about the three trillion dollar tax cut they got.
1
i thought the Republican Party was a conservative group wanting to shrink the budget. Giving all the tax breaks to the rich and now this. Please don’t call yourself’s conservative that is another lie.
1
@D.j.j.k. comparing budget cus to "this" ?
Really? $1.5 trillion tax cut to rich vs. $10 billion to the people who served us. What are you saying?
5
@Bob Previdi
Another never ending well fare program. If most people get in an accident or hurt by a criminal we are in the poor house or on our own no state help. The first responders already do very well with their states they don’t need more like teachers. Just more greedy people you are creating.
Stewart described as just a "comedian" (see caption accompanying photo) may have been true a decade or so ago. He's also a statesman and a man of the people.
12
I am submitting another comment.
Yes, enormous thanks to Jon Stewart. Hugely grateful.
That such an intelligent and articulate and impassioned star such as Jon Stewart immersed himself in this cause, became educated about it, all the while as he serves on the 9/11 Memorial Board of Directors ... this is extremely fortunate and clearly moved the needle faster and further at critical stall points over the years.
It is telling perhaps, and certainly more than a little sad that in this current U.S. 'culture,' a celebrity is required to get the attention of local legislators, Congress, even -- or especially -- this current President.
However, I ask also ... let's not 'forget' John Feal. A 'regular' -- non-celeb -- person who was on this from the get-go. Nearly 20 years. He has done so much for so long for the 9/11 community of responders, families, etc.
Thanks also to the journalists who kept up with this story, stayed current with people and developments over the long haul, writing articles that relatively few saw or bothered to read (I read a lot of them!)
And to Sen. Gillibrand, who is so often dismissed or overlooked -- an early and vocal champion of this for so many years also.
It's a day to be very thankful for.
~ 9/11 family member
16
While I am overjoyed by this result, I can't help but echo Senator Gillibrand's sentiment. This should never have taken so long and it should never, ever have been a fight.
And to Jon Stewart - thank you. You didn't have to do what you did for these brave men and women, but you did it anyways. You never gave up on them. You, and they, are models to live by.
15
I think good reporting would have specifically stated which two senators voted against the bill. Senators Lee and Paul were cited as offering amendments to the bill but that does not necessarily mean they voted against it.
1
I thank the first responders, Jon Stewart, and the Democratic members of Congress who got this passed. I also thank all American taxpayers who don’t cheat and weasel out of their taxes. By the sweat of their brow, they will fund this, as they also pay for our military. This includes immigrants and refugees, who pay taxes too.
Note: not talking about the greedy corporations and ppl who think tax-dodging is a “sport” (DJT’s word). They serve only themselves.
27
Why should lthe federal government aka American taxpayers be liable to the 9/11 First Responders?
3
@Blackmamba
Uh, are you for real?
8
“Liable” is a curious word. We have a moral obligation to care for those people who bravely and selflessly exposed themselves to great risks in the immediate aftermath of a devastating attack on our country. These heroes have earned and deserve our support in facing illnesses caused by the conditions at ground zero.
15
Because we share a community; namely, this country.
13
Thanks to Jon Stewart
68
@Rex Daley
And also thanks to Senator Kristin Gillebrand who has been championing this cause way before Jon Stewart came on board.
5
@N. Smith
Jon Stewart was on board from the beginning, when he still had his show. He brought her on and several first responders to draw publicity to the matter.
9
@N. Smith Gillibrand does only what’s good for Gillibrand.
5
What a hypocrite McConnell is!!! Here's textbook lesson 101 on how to play politics and with people's lives. Please NYT do some investigating on how the spending bill got passed along with his one. I'm sure there were devilish deals that were made by the other hypocrites here, the democratic leadership. The political posturing by both sides should be exposed once and for all. Change is needed.
30
Thank you, Jon Stewart.
McConnell, you're a first class hypocrite.
148
@Cousy
Oh, leave "class" out of it.
13
They are indeed heroes!
Shades of Bethlehem Steel.
4
President Stewart 2020
48
@Chris B
That’s inspired! Yes!
FINALLY
16
Disgraceful and shameful that it took this long. #NeverForget
30
Never forget the names of the two spineless senators who voted against this bill. Never let them forget their gross hypocrisy when they tweet a #neverforget hashtag on September 11. They are a disgrace to their constituents and this country. They are cowards. The men and women who sacrificed for everyone else that day should never be forgotten and always be granted whatever access they need to healthcare for as long as they need it. They are the true every day heroes.
106
Sometimes I feel like the only real winners from this legislation are the lawyers I constantly hear advertising specifically for this on 1010 WINS.
5
Finally. First responders do their job each and every day. And deserve the respect and financial support for life of grateful nation.
12
Thankfully the bill passed in spite of the self serving grandstanding by Rand Paul who most certainly does not represent the vast majority of Kentuckians.
40
@John Warnock He absolutely does represent all of Kentucky. He's their representative. He won an election to be their representative, meaning they want him to do what he's been doing. If they didn't want him there, they would have voted for someone else, but they didn't.
Maybe they will choose someone else next time he and Mitch are up for reelection, but I think we both know that's not going to happen, because Mitch and Rand are what Kentucky wants to show the world.
12
I hate to be so horribly heartless concerning the heroic deaths of first responders on 9/11. But I have a few questions. What sort of benefits would a fireman who died in the line of duty on 9/10/01 have been given? If they are much less than what is planned for the 9/11 survivors, I would ask, "why".
Regarding the fund for those with later illnesses caused by 9/11, doesn't the current first responder's contract help enough?
Also, after 18 years, what percentage of illnesses are attributable to 9/11? Per the Daily News :"As of June, 88,484 first responders and survivors have registered with the World Trade Center Health Program". According to the National Cancer Institute, the incidence of cancer in the US is for ages 30-59 is about 0.6% per year. Expected cancers for a group of 88K people, after 18 years would be 9504 expected cancers.
Per the same Daily News article: "Of that number, roughly 10,000 have some form of cancer that has been certified by the program."
Sure, these statistics are really imprecise. Maybe the expected cancers would be 7500, maybe 12000; but the point is that, even if there was a statistical increase in cancers, it would only be nominal, that is, only causing some small percentage of them. And yet, legal compensation tends to compensate ALL illnesses at 100%.
11
@Bob, I do not have facts and figures to hand but I wonder what the results would be if one looked at the NCI stats vs. the Stats for the WTC group broken down by types of cancer.
@Bob, Well, I think the only thing I can think of in response to what you've written is, thank goodness it isn't us in that small percentage.
1
@Bob And the thing I can't understand, and raised in another post, is how these benes interface with existing NYPD and FDNY benefit plans, which are by and large considered very generous and paid for out of NYC income taxes. For instance, FDNY and NYPD can retire after 20 yrs of service at any age on full pension, earlier if they become disabled on a triple-tax free disability. A retirees they also get lifetime medical benefit for themselves and families. So I ask myself what does this new fund provide that existing funds don't.
Only thing I can think of is that families of those who died on 9/11 participated in big federal fund that paid millions per family. Perhaps this fund is intended to give lump sum settlements to surviving families of people who died later rather than sooner.
These workers deserve compensation, but aren’t they covered by workers’ compensation? That is an established system that works relatively quickly and anyone injured or disabled or killed due to exposure at work would be covered.
4
@adicicco
Worker's comp was woefully inadequate to the huge toll of 9/11 dead, and the calamity of many survivors' health.
So, briefly -- no. Not nearly up to the task required.
~ 9/11 family member
4
@adicicco This is a good question. I looked up the different types of Workers Comp benefits (generally; they can vary from state to state). They are:
1) Medical: "Workers' comp pays for hospital and other medical expenses that have to occur to identify and treat a work-related injury or illness."
2) Rehab: "Rehabilitation benefits pay for medical and therapeutic care (such as physical therapy) necessary to help you cope with and recover from your injury or illness."
3) Disability: "Temporary Total disability, Temporary Partial Disability (limited payments). Permanent partial disability (limited payments), Permanent Total Disability or death benefits" (for surviving loved ones).
I believe the problem could be that many of the workers (I read in the neighborhood of 10,000) that cleaned up the site for example, notwithstanding first responders, became ill with cancer 7-10 years later. If Workers Comp limits filing time this could be a problem if you don't even know you'll be sick later on. The Victim's Fund was legislated and passed by the State of NY to cover additional medical bills, etc. I think it expired and that's what Jon Stewart was fighting for.
FINALLY. The Republican-controlled Senate got something right by voting in favor of this bill.
All of us who were here on September 11, 2001 will never forget.
And neither should they.
11
The president signed into law his tax bill act on Dec. 22, 2017 which his wealthy pals benefited from, significantly.
Hopefully the president will sign "legislation to care permanently for those who have grown deathly ill from the toxins of ground zero".
It's the honorable and right thing to do. It's the least this country can do for these incredible individuals who risked their lives in hopes of saving others.
8
$10.2 billion on top of the $7.4 billion previously allotted? That is $791,000 per worker. Someone really needs to review the claims.
10
@James
A $million is nothing in treating cancer for a couple years.
11
@James
I mean, it's "first responders" and "family" -- are we even allowed to ask questions? Plus if Jon Stewart supports it, it must be right.
Another poster in this comment section said there's nearly 90,000 people registered with this fund. There's roughly 50,000 total NYPD and NYFD uniformed employees combined. It's like every employee (did they ALL respond on 9/11?) and 1/3 of their spouses got free, unlimited health care for life.
Surely one sign of the collapse of an empire is lavishing treasure on the Praetorian Guard for their sacrifices to ensure their continued loyalty to the empire.
@James
Most are getting multi million dollar settlement s in additional to other union benefits, etc.
Thank you Jon Stewart for being the voice of these first responders. Thank you for not giving up and for your passionate appeal to the Congress to give these men and women their dues. Shame on the two Congressmen for voting against a bill that shouldn't even debated in the first place.
21
Three words: It's about time.
Shame on Senators Paul and Lee for voting against this. Unbelievable that it took almost two decades to get this passed.
18
As one who worked at Ground Zero, who was instructed NOT to wear a respirator because it would have alarmed residents and the media, as one who has become increasingly sicker each year after 9/11, as one who has known first and second responders (federal and state recovery workers) who are now withered shells of their former selves, including myself — thank you, Jon Stewart.
471
@Concerned Veteran Yes. I agree. And your thanks is appropriate. Because if somebody like Mulvaney had a say in it, you would likely deserve less and get less so the Freedom Caucus could say it was strangling government.
19
@Concerned Veteran
Thank you to you and everyone else who was there for your service. Senators Rand and Lee may not be grateful, but New Yorkers bless you and pray for you everyday.
49
@Concerned Veteran
I honor you sir/madam.
We know some of those of whom you speak and you speak the truth. We have formed a 'NY family' over the years since those dark days / months /years that followed the day that took our Andrea -- daughter, sister, fiancee, niece, granddaughter, friend -- from our family that day.
And among these hero responders and site workers ...the health calamities cannot be overstated. The sacrifices mount each year.
Bless all the responders, and from this family member ... as inadequate as it is: thank you, forever and always.
~ 9/11 family member
55
This should have been done long ago. It is a shame it took so long.
8
That doofus from Kentucky, Rand Paul, voted for a tax break for corporations and rich people that added one and a half trillion dollars to the deficit, but he wants to enact spending cuts To this bill which only aims to reimburse people who become mortally ill seeking to save lives? How on earth does he live with himself?
102
@James Panico
Conservatives believe that a dollar has worth, not people. Thank goodness for our new Conservative SCOTUS, and the people who support that sentiment.
3
Dont forget he is an MD.
3
Our country finally did something kind, moral, necessary
for its citizens in NYC? Good, in a way, you all existed in my back yard. I felt that close to all of you.
I do have one question. Did Trump break out in hives when he heard this?
9
It's funny and sad it took a comedian to come and shame them to get this legislation approved.
11
Jon Stewart did it. American hero.
24
Seven decades is a joke... Another one of these bills were prudent governance and common sense call for a clear veto, but the absolute clownish media environment will make that political suicide.
These types of bills make Mr. Hobbes seem very wise.
2
Par for the course for Sen. Rand Paul, (R-Kentucky) to have voted against the bill in order not to offset the budget.
3
So long overdue, so much unnecessary struggle and hardship endured.
So, amen to this day at long last.
Mitch McConnell should have been muzzled during the floor speeches, because, really? What a hypocrite. So that's irritating.
And Rand Paul -- we won't forget you either! Trust in that.
But, I digress with the above paragraph, in discussing such small and insignificant people like MMc and Paul for even a nanosecond.
This is the day to re-focus on and 'never forget' the many, many heroes of that day -- men and women, uniformed and not, volunteers, citizens and residents -- and pray this is the support that will finally give them one element of some long-term peace of mind. They can never be made well again, or 'whole,' in any sense. Funding their health care via the extension of this legislation is the very least that can be done for their overwhelming sacrifices.
Bless you all, and from this family member ... thank you. Forever and always.
~ 9/11 family member
17
It's about time. But as usual, Rand Paul and Mike Lee show their true colors: stymie all legislation to the bitter end regardless of purpose under the guise of "fiscal responsibility." And yet, when their cult leader proposes to saddle the country with trillions of dollars of debt with a tax cut for the wealthy, they fall all over themselves getting in line to vote yes. Just how out of touch with reality are their constituents to ignore these hypocrites and their phony morals?
33
Finally, with all the chaos and dysfunction, finally... something honorable happened today.
8
Leave it to Rand Paul to screech about the deficit while heroes are dying but gladly give a tax cut to those who needed it least. Hypocrisy is too tame a word for this to type of cowardice. Kentucky, do better.
37
I was nearly moved to tears by the speech by Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO). I'm disappointed the NYT didn't mention his efforts on this bill, especially to beat back poison-pill amendments.
4
A no-brainer that took far too long.
4
So, Congress CAN do "bipartisan legislation". Only after major shaming from a comedian and a man in his final gasps of breath pleading- and no thanks to Rand Paul's sanctimonious "concern" about the budget. September 11, 2001 created a sea change in how America functions; Homeland Security, air travel, identification... yet those who truly put their lives in peril had to beg for help.
That this is Breaking News, just demonstrates how pathetic Congress has become in doing the people's business.
268
@Candlewick
Well said.
1
About time. We are a fickle bunch. We Rush to pour money on victims of 9/11, but slow to help out the hero's of 9/11.
1
Rand Paul- votes for tax cut for the wealthy at cost of > $100 B a YEAR in revenue and against this bill that cost $10 B TOTAL.
That’s why the first responders are heroes and he’s a LOSER and a HYPOCRITE.
54
Senator Gillibrand is a hero.
6
"“Congress can never repay these men, women and families for their sacrifices,” said Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader,..."
Yeah and thanks to McConnell and another Republican, Congress almost didn't repay them at all. The fact that McConnell now stands there and says these words shows how much a slimy politician he is.
27
No brainier. They should be embarrassed it took this long!
5
Where’s the like button?
1
Congratulations Jon,Your a great patriot.
Here is what else the sneaky Congress is trying to pass today buried inside of the 9/11 bill
Congress is voting at 2pm
H.R. 1837
38 billion over 10 years to Israel plus the continuation annual payments of 2 billion to Egypt, 1 billion to Jordan to make nice with Israel.
H.R.es 246
Expresses opposition to the “BDS”
H.R. 1850 seeks to financially sanction any organization or individuals who provide “support” of the Palestinian resistance against Israel illegal occupation.
H.Res 496
All Americans have the right to participate in boycott protected by the first amendment to the constitution.
Let’s see who ivotes for and against these bills
Sickening that American MSM calls themselves a free press
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This seems good time to remind ourselves that a lot of the suffering caused by "working on the pile" could have been prevented. In September 2001 the EPA head, Christine Todd Whitman, assured everyone that the air at Ground Zero was safe to breathe. In 2016 she finally admitted publicly that she had been wrong about that. Any lingering questions about why the cost of caring for these people is a Federal responsibility should be answered by that fact.
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@carol goldstein Most first responders wouldn't have worn a respirator anyway.
@James
Why?
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@James
Why do you think this?
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I can't believe Lee and Paul actually voted against it and will also get reelected. Huge props to the 9/11 first responders for their courage to fight, Stewart for using his popularity and Sen. Gillibrand to stand up to Lee and Paul in the Senate floor a few days ago.
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This is long overdue. The sacrifices of first responders is not a political football.
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I am a 9/11 FDNY responder.
I do not know what may happen to me but I am grateful that , because of this bill, my family will be ok.
Thank you to all responsible for the passage of this bill, in particular Jon Stewart and Senators Gillibrand and Schumer.
Thank you America.
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God Bless Jon Stewart for holding their feet to the fire. Frankly, this legislation should have been passed as soon as it became apparent that the first responders were suffering.
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We'll see if trump does the first correct, ethical action of his presidency.
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@Tom Hoover
Expect he will sign.
Probably also will claim it was all his doing and make it a self-serving, braggy thing, like he's the hero. Ugh.
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It’s about time. There should never have been a question about this, nor should affirming that have needed 1/10 of the time is has (and still is) taking to complete.
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I admit I was tempted to make a sniping comment about the tardiness of this achievement but I won't. I am more than thankful to see the compassion of both Parties to forward this veto-proof bill for Trump's signature. Remembering his views on 9/11, I pray that he has a sliver of compassion left to sign it rather than forcing a revote to overrule him.
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Jon Stewart had to beg our United States Congress for the pension funding those afflicted deserve. Too bad Luis Alvarez had to come to Congress on his deathbed to make the point - these victims who worked in the depths of trying to clean up our beloved country after this horrendous decimation attempt deserve so much more than having to beg.
My daughter is a flight attendant. Her husband is a pilot. I’ll never forget the call from them, on September 11, 2001, three days before her 24th birthday. Mom, turn on the news!” And so it went on 9/11.
Our family went to Ground Zero at Christmastime, 2001, with my daughter. The Christmas trees down below with names and pictures hanging on them like ornaments, only victims, now in heaven. The machinery was being driven under the lights in the dark. People were driving those machines in that mighty pile - people who would never know the outcome of their dire service.
How dare this Congress toy with the seriousness of the ramifications of those who have served, that have been maimed, those that will never work again, those that suffer - toying with their funding to help, just help, in their suffering. It should not take a nurse like myself to read the afflictions and know what they are. It should not take healthcare providers to see and try to rehabilitate the afflicted from that horrendous disaster. It shouldn’t take those that served in St. Paul’s Church, the strife they saw.
Our government has been cruel. Now, the end to that.
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@MIMA
Our government hasn't been cruel. Republicans in Congress have been cruel. It's Republicans and Libertarians in Congress that have no compassion for the suffering. Let's not paint with so broad a brush. It's Republicans. Like the misfits in the WH and the Senate majority leader. Republicans!
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Thank you all those impacted and to John Stewart for using his voice to make sure these brave individuals will be taken care of. Sadly it took pleading abs guilt to get Congress to act .
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Where were Rand Paul and Mike Lee on 9-11? Where were they in the ensuing days, weeks, and months? Were they down at the World Trade Center? Were they at the pile day after day? Were they working to find people? To save people? To help people? Or were they cowering under their desks? I think that we all know the answers to these questions. Well done to Luis Alvarez, John Feal, all of the first responders, Jon Stewart, and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand. I echo the sentiments of Senator Gillibrand that this never should have been a fight. Senators Paul and Lee should be ashamed. I urge voters to use their voices and vote these men out of office.
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@Proud New Yorker, if the WTC had been in their state instead of New York, it would have been done years ago. But you know that...they're god-awful human beings.
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@Proud New Yorker
I do know that last year over the July 4th break, Rand Paul was in Moscow with an entire GOP contingent yucking it up with Putin and his pals. Don't know about Mr. Lee.
They have money to give to the 1% in tax breaks with not a care for the deficit and NOW they are worrying about where the money will come from? Hypocrisy at it's best. And for such a 'cause'? Shame on them.
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@Proud New Yorker
Indeed, where were they? I know where they were the day the most recent big tax cut was being voted on in the Senate. They were in the chamber voting yes for the tax cut. A tax cut that is sending out national debt into orbit and fattening up our yearly deficit to the tune of a trillion dollars. Where is their concern over this? They both have the gall to shove their patriotism into our faces then sell out Americans that are far more patriotic than either of them and did their country proud on 9/11.
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God bless our first responders, and God bless Jon Stewart.
Shame on Rand Paul, and shame on Mike Lee. I hope the people of Kentucky and Utah are better than this. I hope they express it at the polls.
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A very good first step.
I would now like to see lifetime compensation for everyone who has been exposed to Donald Trump.
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Finally!
The words from Lincoln's 2nd inaugural address ring in my ears when I think of the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund. These words, proclaimed the motto of the Veterans Administration in 1959, apply equally well to those public servants who gave their health and their lives in the service of those lost in the collapse of the towers:
...to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan...
There can be no greater honor than giving your life because of your refusal to abandon the dead in the pile at ground zero.
Our shame is how long it took to fulfill our obligation to this responders.
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A very good first step.
I would now like to see lifetime compensation for everyone who has been exposed to Donald Trump.
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While I am happy that this will be funded, I think they also need to address that major problem of its long, difficult and confusing application process. It is hard enough for offical , documented responders to apply , even harder for those who were passer by, residents, contractors, sanitation workers, non-documented workers. There are more that needs to be done. Fix the WTC health Program, update the application process, included more medical conditions.
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My most sincere thanks and congratulations to Jon Stewart. His relentless pursuit of justice for these heroes was beyond inspiring. That he carried on this singular mission for years after leaving the public spotlight of hosting The Daily Show emphasizes how sincere he was about this.
The warmth I felt reading this news, after following Mr. Stewart's tenacious fixation of this for years, is almost enough to momentarily let me forget about the strings that people like Rand Paul tried to attach to this legislation - as if firefighters rushing into the towers on 9/11 stopped to consider Congressional funding before risking or giving their lives. Wars, tax cuts, oil subsidies - no problem. We only "don't have the money" when it comes to doing the right thing.
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@Solaris
Let's not forget the tenacity of the first responders themselves who also fought for funding even though they were ill.
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The passage of this bill shows the power that one influential, passionate, and righteous person can wield in an unrelenting fight for social justice and fairness. Thank you Jon Stewart for demonstrating the real meaning of patriotism and compassion at this troubled time in our nation's history. The fact that this fight was necessary to help these selfless first responders remains a troubling blemish on what seems to be a waning sense of compassion in our ongoing attempts at democracy.
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@Glenn Appell
Jon Stewart deserves all the credit that he is getting, but please give a thought to Luis Alvarez and the other first responders. Mr. Alvarez was sitting next to Mr. Stewart on the Senate floor when he gave his impassioned plea. Alas, Mr. Alvarez did not make it. He died three weeks later succumbing to cancer.
Mr. Alvarez was one of the responders who began the movement to fund healthcare for those who have and those who will pay the ultimate price. It would seem obvious that the first responders deserved all the help that they needed but apparently offering one's life in defense of one's country and community does not obviate this. Jon Stewart was decent enough and hurt enough by this that he offered his considerable platform to work on this issue. Yes, he deserves a lot of credit, but he did not achieve this goal alone.
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I have no doubt that he would concur.
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All should thank Jon Stewart's tireless efforts as well.
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To all the First Responders, volunteers, and others who sacrificed of themselves by working endlessly to save lives and to restore New York: Thank you for your service. You are a blessing to US.
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@Elizabeth Mirant
The closest friend I had who worked for months on cleaning up the mess died years ago, from lung infections. He was once the lighting man at CBGBs. He ran, without hesitation, into this and stayed till it was done. God bless him and all the rest. His birthday was this week. Thank you, Dennis Dunn. Hope to see you in Heaven.
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@Charlie Messing: Sorry for your loss. America's loss as well. Those affected by these 9-11 illnesses are brave heroes who would likely have spent many more years in the service of others if they had not been felled by these terrible early onset illnesses.
Thank you Hero Dennis Dunn!
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