TITLE
Recommendation to request resolution in support of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act.
DISCUSSION
The 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center created a toxic and hazardous environment for rescue and recovery workers and other workers and residents in lower Manhattan. Responders and survivors inhaled a toxic cocktail of chemicals and particulates over a period of days and weeks, leading to injury and illness in more than 30,000 responders and survivors. Health conditions range across respiratory illness, gastro-esophageal conditions, cancers, and psychological disorders.
In 2010, Congress passed the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. The Act established the World Trade Center Health Program to provide medical monitoring and treatment for 9/11-related health conditions. The law also reopened the September 11 th Victim Compensation Fund to compensate responders and survivors for economic damages and losses due to illness or injury. The programs are currently set to expire in 2015 and 2016.
Because it is evident that the victims remain in need of the services, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act was introduced on April 14, 2015. This Act would reauthorize the program, and allow responders and survivors to utilize necessary services and funds to continue to receive long term treatment that they deserve for the numerous illnesses and conditions that are plaguing them. A resolution by the City of Long Beach will show compassion and support for the thousands of individuals who were affected by the terrors of 9/11.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no significant fiscal impact.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
REX RICHARDSON
COUNCILMEMBER, NINTH DISTRICT
LENA GONZALEZ
COUNCILWOMAN, FIRST DISTRICT
DARYL SUPERNAW
COUNCILMEMBER, FOURTH DISTRICT
ROBERTO URANGA
COUNCILMEMBER, SEVENTH DISTRICT