Administration to Reverse World Trade Center Health Program Staff and Funding Cuts

Update as of February 21st, 2025: Lawmakers from both parties have condemned the cuts, emphasizing the program’s importance to those who risked their lives in response to the 9/11 attacks. Amid widespread public outcry across political lines, the federal government is expected to halt reductions to staffing and funding for the World Trade Center Health Program, which provides medical care and research for 9/11 survivors, according to several New York lawmakers.

February 18, 2025: The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) is a critical lifeline for 137,000 9/11 responders and survivors across the country, many who are currently battling 9/11 cancers and serious breathing conditions. Unfortunately, recent cuts by the new administration have put the future of medical care for 9/11 victims at risk. According to a statement by Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of the Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act, these changes could delay urgent medical care for 9/11 cancer patients, halt important 9/11 cancer research, and reduce the program's ability to assist the entire 9/11 community.

Staff Cuts and Delays in Care

The administration recently terminated sixteen staff members at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who help run the World Trade Center Health Program. Combined with other staff taking buyouts, the program has lost over 20% of its workforce. These cuts will have extensive effects, including:

• The certification process for new cancers and other conditions will face delays. Currently, it takes the World Trade Center Health Program approximately eight months to “certify” a 9/11 cancer for medical care. With the new staffing cuts, the “certification process" may be even longer. Can you imagine waiting for more than eight months for desperately needed 9/11 medical cancer care?
• Decisions regarding pending petitions for the inclusion of autoimmune, cardiac, and other conditions, originally expected in March, will be postponed.
• The program’s ability to address fraud, abuse, and service improvements for 9/11 responders and survivors will be reduced.
• Staffing reductions will significantly hinder the program's capacity to address patient complaints and resolve issues related to prescriptions and treatment.
  
  

Research Programs on Hold

Beyond the lack in staffing, critical research grants have been canceled, including one that funded the FDNY’s efforts to study how disease rates among firefighters compare to those in three other urban fire departments. This research is key to proving that new conditions like autoimmune diseases and heart problems are linked to 9/11 exposures. Without this necessary research, it will be harder to add these illnesses to the Health Program's certified coverage list, leaving 9/11 victims without the care they need.

Larger Challenges Ahead

The program is also facing a communication freeze from the CDC, delaying public updates and research progress. On top of this, recent efforts to secure funding for the WTC Health Program’s looming budget shortfall have been blocked, threatening further cuts in the near future.

Hansen & Rosasco is Here to Help

The WTC Health Program was created to provide lifetime healthcare 9/11 victims who suffer from the many cancers and illnesses caused by breathing the toxic dust and fumes that hung in the air over lower Manhattan in the months after 9/11. While these cuts may lead to delays and challenges, Hansen & Rosasco is committed to standing by our clients every step of the way. We understand how vital the WTC Health Program is for responders and survivors, and we will continue to guide our clients through the certification process. Our dedicated staff works exclusively with the WTC Health Program, ensuring that every client receives the attention and support they deserve.

Whether it’s navigating delays, advocating for coverage of new conditions, or addressing any issues that arise - with our experience and resources, Hansen & Rosasco is here to fight for you. Call us today at 1-855-416-7256 to discuss the Hansen & Rosasco financial award results and how much compensation you may be entitled to from your 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claim.