(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Today, Rep. Raskin voted in favor of H.R. 1327, the “Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alverez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act,” which passed the House by a vote of 402-12. The bipartisan legislation extends the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) until 2092, similar to the timeline of the World Trade Center Health Program, and reverses all cuts in compensation for both current and future claims.  

“I’m proud to be an original cosponsor and fervent supporter of this legislation,” said Rep. Raskin. “In the days, weeks and months following the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, America saw firefighters, rescue workers and first responders – from the local New York area and from across the country – go to Ground Zero to do the dangerous work of debris removal and clean-up. Many who worked at Ground Zero now suffer from serious 9/11-related illnesses and many – like first responder Luis Alvarez – have died as a result of such illnesses. I did not know Luis Alvarez but I witnessed his powerful and unforgettable testimony when he came before the Judiciary Committee last month. He mobilized all of his energy to give righteous voice to all the 9/11 first responders increasingly bewildered and outraged by the lethargic response of their government to their suffering. Mr. Alvarez was a public servant, a fighter and a citizen who challenged indifference and injustice until the very end. I wish he could have lived to see the House pass this legislation. Let the Senate act in concert with the House now to honor his sacrifice, his service and his cause.”  

With today’s legislation, a grateful nation pledges our enduring appreciation and unfailing support to all who showed their enormous courage both during and in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

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