Benefits for 9/11 Volunteer Firefighters

Hundreds of volunteer firefighters rushed to the scene of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. Unfortunately, many of these volunteer firefighters now endure various health conditions related to their service, including over 69 types of cancer. To support these individuals, specific benefits have been introduced by New York legislation (S1411B- A711B) to provide for volunteer firefighters who have developed cancer as a result of exposure to toxins and carcinogens while in the line of duty. Benefits provided by the New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Cancer Disability Benefits Act became effective January 1, 2019. Depending on individual circumstances, benefits may include a lump sum payment, a disability-based monthly payment, and/or an accidental death benefit for family members. 

At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, our experienced 9/11 attorneys are dedicated to advocating for the 9/11 community. If you are a 9/11 volunteer firefighter who has developed cancer, we are available to answer your questions regarding the benefits and compensation available to you. We offer comprehensive legal services through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you rightfully deserve.  

What Is the New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Cancer Disability Benefits Act?

The New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Cancer Disability Benefits Act, also known as the Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law, was enacted in response to the increased risk of cancer faced by firefighters due to exposure to the toxic cloud of dust and debris released in the destruction of the Twin Towers, including several known carcinogens. This act provides benefits similar to those afforded to career firefighters. 

These benefits are provided in addition to benefits from other programs, such as ongoing medical monitoring and treatment provided by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), financial compensation through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), and workers’ compensation through the Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefits Law. While programs like the WTC Health Program and VCF cover a range of 9/11-related health conditions for first responders – including various types of cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, and airway and digestive disorders such as asthma, reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – the Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law is specifically tailored to support volunteer firefighters who have been diagnosed with 9/11-related cancer.

Benefits of the Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law

The Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law provides three separate benefits to eligible volunteer firefighters. Each of these is available independently of the other. The law is designed to address the long-term health impacts that might not have been immediately apparent post-9/11, but have since become a significant concern for many volunteer firefighters.

Lump Sum Payout

One of the key features of this law is the lump sum benefit. This payout varies depending on the severity of the cancer diagnosis. The amount for less severe forms of cancer is $6,250, while more severe cancers provide a lump sum payment of $25,000. If there is more than one negative diagnosis over the volunteer firefighter’s lifetime, this payment may increase up to $50,000. The lump sum payout is aimed at easing the financial burden on firefighters and their families as they navigate through the health care and treatment process. VCF awards for a 9/11 cancer are generally higher, ranging from $90,000 to $340,000. 

Disability-Based Monthly Payment

In addition to the lump sum, the Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law also provides for a disability-based monthly payment. Those who become fully disabled due to cancer are eligible for a monthly benefit of $1,500, payable in up to 36 consecutive monthly payments. This monthly disability payment ensures volunteer firefighters have a steady income in the immediate future. The VCF also includes awards for lost earnings and benefits, past and future, for higher amounts up to $200,000 plus the value of any lost benefits. 

Accidental Death Benefit

An accidental death benefit is also included in the Cancer Law. This benefit provides $50,000 to the families of volunteer firefighters who lost their lives due to cancer related to their 9/11 service. This benefit provides additional support to family members navigating the untimely death of a loved one. The VCF also provides for deceased claim benefits, again at a higher amount, up to $250,000 for the deceased claim, a $100,000 spousal award, $100,000 for each dependent of the deceased, full reimbursement for funeral/burial expense, and the loss of household services. 

Who Is Eligible for These Benefits?

Eligibility for these benefits is specifically tailored to volunteer firefighters who have served in interior firefighting roles for a minimum period and have passed required physical examinations and mask fitting tests. Proving eligibility is crucial, and working with an experienced 9/11 attorney to file a claim can greatly assist in navigating the complexities of the process, ensuring that those who are entitled to these benefits receive them. 

Specifically, a volunteer firefighter must meet the following criteria to be eligible for benefits through the Volunteer Firefighter Cancer Law: 

1. The volunteer firefighter has served for at least five years as an interior firefighter and has passed the mask fit test that is required of all volunteer firefighters with an interior firefighter rating 
2. The volunteer firefighter is currently active or within 5 years of his or her last active date
3. When entering the volunteer service, the volunteer firefighter successfully passed a physical examination and did not show any evidence of the cancers covered by this bill
4. The volunteer firefighter has a disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in any part of the body or a malignant growth or tumor affecting the lymphatic or hematological systems or digestive, urinary, prostate, neurological, breast or reproductive systems, or melanoma.

Getting 9/11 Volunteer Firefighters the Aid They Deserve

The brave volunteer firefighters who responded to the 9/11 attacks are rightfully entitled to proper support and benefits. Understanding and accessing these benefits can be a complex process, and legal guidance can be crucial to ensuring volunteer firefighters receive the aid they deserve. At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, our team of knowledgeable 9/11 attorneys provides comprehensive support throughout the process. We recognize the sacrifices made by 9/11 volunteer firefighters and are dedicated to helping them receive the recognition and support they have earned. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits available to you.