Press Release - Bishop, 9/11 First Responders Fight for Help from Federal Government
Bishop, 9/11 First Responders Fight for Help from Federal Government
Kings Park, NY - Congressman Tim Bishop was joined by several injured and sickened first responders from Long Island to demand action from the federal government to help the heroes who led the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. One month after the fifth anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Bishop discussed several bills that would assist first responders but have stalled in Congress.
"We need to stand up for the heroes who stood with us and risked their lives when America was attacked," Bishop said. "This should be a no-brainer. These first responders are suffering, and it's a disgrace that Congress hasn't even held one hearing on legislation to help them."
Bishop discussed his support for three bills which would aid Ground Zero first responders but have not received so much as a hearing The 9/11 Comprehensive Health Benefits Act, The Remember 9/11 Health Act, and the Victims Compensation Extension Act.
These bills would aid first responders by paying the cost of their health care, disability compensation and rehabilitation as a result of their rescue efforts. Many of the first responders are suffering from conditions ranging from pulmonary diseases, as a result of breathing pulverized glass and concrete which has lodged in their lungs, to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, which makes it difficult to work.
One injured first responder present was John Feal of Nesconset, a construction supervisor who lost half of his foot in an accident at Ground Zero, but was denied a victim's assistance claim. Despite his own problems, Feal has started the "Feal Good Foundation" to assist injured first responders.
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"My colleagues in Congress need to remember: It wasn't only New York attacked on September 11th; the nation was attacked," Bishop said. "Half a decade has passed since September 11th, and the health of these heroes is getting worse. Half a decade is more than enough time to act."
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http://wwwc.house.gov/timbishop/r109-119.htm