Frequently Asked Questions About the 9/11 Notice Act

The 9/11 Notice Act represents a significant development in the ongoing efforts to inform and educate downtown Manhattan office and other civilian workers that they are eligible for lifetime healthcare from the World Trade Center Health Program and also a tax-free award from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. The Notice Act is to ensure that forgotten victims – such as office workers, finance professionals, building service workers, teachers/staff, retail workers, hospitality workers, delivery people, and all other workers – are made aware of the substantial available benefits. 

These benefits include lifetime healthcare and tax-free compensation for any downtown area worker (south of Canal Street) who has been diagnosed with either a breathing or digestive disorder or any type of cancer since the 9/11 attacks. 

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the 9/11 Notice Act.

What Is the Notice Act?

The 9/11 Notice Act is a legislative measure signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul. It mandates employers to inform their employees who were working in the designated disaster areas during the 9/11 terrorist attacks about the benefits and compensation available through the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act (Zadroga Act). These benefits include financial compensation for economic and non-economic losses through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), and no-cost medical monitoring and treatment of certified 9/11-related health conditions through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). This act underscores the commitment of the state to ensure that all affected individuals, including civilian downtown Manhattan workers and first responders, are made aware of their eligibility for benefits and services for 9/11-related health conditions.

Why is the Notice Act Significant?

In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks, a toxic cloud of dust, debris, and chemicals was released from the collapse of the Twin Towers. Often referred to as “WTC dust,” these materials lingered in the air until mid-2002 and settled on the streets and structures of downtown Manhattan, covering the area in layers of fine gray powder.  The countless office workers, restaurant staff, and other employees who were cleared to return to their downtown employment after the attacks were exposed to this toxic dust, which has been linked to an increased risk of various 9/11-related health conditions, including 70+ types of cancer, several different types of aerodigestive disorders, and mental health conditions. 

There were approximately 350,000 civilian downtown workers exposed to the toxic fallout from 9/11. Currently, only 42,620 9/11 survivors (non-first responders such as area workers, residents, and students) are enrolled in the WTC Health Program, which means nearly 300,000 survivors are not enrolled. The significance of the Notice Act lies in its potential to bridge the information gap. By making it a requirement for employers to disseminate this crucial information, the 9/11 Notice Act ensures that a larger number of affected individuals are aware of their eligibility to access necessary medical treatment and monitoring as well as financial compensation for certified conditions linked to 9/11 exposure. This proactive approach aims to enhance the quality of life for thousands who continue to suffer from health issues as a direct consequence of the attacks and ensures that awareness of access to benefits and compensation does not become an additional barrier in the healing journey of these victims.

When Will the Notice Act Go Into Effect?

The Notice Act is set to go into effect September 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to support 9/11 victims. From this date forward, businesses operating within the defined disaster areas who had 50 or more employees are required to notify their current and former employees who were present in the months following the attacks and are duly informed about the VCF and WTCHP. This applies to individuals who were in the Lower Manhattan and northern Brooklyn exposure zones between September 2001 and the end of May 2002. The implementation of this Act represents a critical step towards ensuring that all affected individuals are aware of and can access the benefits they are entitled to.

How Can I Learn More About the Notice Act?

For those seeking to learn more about the 9/11 Notice Act and its implications for your business and employees, a press release by the New York State Senate covers the basics of the Notice Act. Further details can be found in the text of the 9/11 Notice Act. For personalized guidance and to understand how the 9/11 Notice Act affects you specifically, the dedicated 9/11 attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP are here to help.

Work with A Trusted 9/11 Attorney

If you worked in lower Manhattan on 9/11 or during the year after, there is no need to wait to receive an employer notice to receive benefits from the WTCHP and an award from the VCF. If you have questions or need assistance related to the 9/11 benefits, we encourage you to reach out to us today. Let us help you navigate this important aspect of 9/11 compensation and care, ensuring that you are fully supported in your journey to seek medical monitoring and treatment for your condition and financial compensation for your losses.