Recognizing and Supporting the Forgotten Victims of 9/11

Recognizing and Supporting the Forgotten Victims of 9/11: The Urgency of the 9/11 Notice Act

As the devastating events of September 11, 2001, still remind us of what happened, a new battle started for the people who were unwittingly exposed to toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and even asbestos in the aftermath of the terrorist attack. While the government has been righteously focusing on the heroic first responders who rushed to combat the danger, there's still a cohort of silent other victims of the attack who also bear the scars of that tragic day. However, the recently passed 9/11 Notice Act tries to shed light on their plight and ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.

People Exposed to Toxic Substances after 9/11 Are Now Suffering from Cancers and Other Diseases

After 9/11, the air in Lower Manhattan became heavily contaminated. When the World Trade Center towers collapsed, they released a toxic cloud of different hazardous substances. These substances included lead, asbestos, dioxins, mercury, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). In the aftermath, office and cleanup workers, first responders, and residents were exposed, and as a result, they developed various health problems, including respiratory issues, mental health disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. However, researchers are worried about the increased risk of certain types of cancer.

According to studies, those exposed to the toxins following 9/11 are at higher risk of developing lung cancer, prostate cancer, mesothelioma, multiple myeloma, and thyroid cancer. Substances like benzene and asbestos were also present in the debris and dust caused by the collapse of the World Trade Center site. Since cancer has a long latency period, cases continue to emerge years after exposure. Researchers are still trying to understand what health consequences stem from the 9/11 attacks. At the same time, they monitor the health of survivors to provide them with necessary medical care.

The Victim Compensation Fund Helps 9/11 Survivors Get Support

The Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is critical in providing financial assistance and support to responders, survivors, and their families affected by the 9/11 events and their aftermath. It was established in 2001 and was later reauthorized in the following years. In 2011, the Zadroga Act reopened the VCF after it was closed in 2004. The VCF aims to provide compensation not only for medical expenses but also for economic losses caused by the 9/11-related injuries and illnesses. It covers the costs of medical treatment, ongoing healthcare needs, and even prescription medications.

In addition, the VCF offers compensation to help 9/11 survivors and responders cover other essential expenses and maintain their quality of life. It acknowledges the physical and emotional tolls survivors and responders endured and compensates for pain and suffering.

The Act introduced new eligibility criteria and filed deadlines. After, in 2019, the Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent

Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act was passed. As a result, the claim filing deadline was extended to October 1st, 2090. This legislation also allocated funds to cover all eligible claims. To date, the VCF has awarded payouts to over 35,000 survivors and responders. The compensation amount is different and depends on the nature of people's injuries. Cancer victims receive $250,000, while those with other types of injuries get $90,000.

What Is the 9/11 Notice Act?

The 9/11 Notice Act mandates that employers notify employees in exposure zones between September 11, 2001, and July 31, 2002, about their assistance eligibility. Increasing awareness and providing more information, the bill empowers affected individuals to seek the support they need and deserve. Even though many civilians have been exposed to toxins in the 9/11 aftermath, the group registration rate for the Victim Compensation Fund remains alarmingly low, with only a fraction of first responders applying. Such disparity highlights an urgent need for measures such as the 9/11 Notice Act to provide equitable access to assistance and bridge the gap.

Not only are the provisions outlined in the 9/11 Notice Act important, but there's also a pressing need for community resources and targeted outreach efforts to reach people unaware they're eligible for support. To put it more simply, local initiatives, partnerships with healthcare providers, and grassroots organizations can play the most important role in connecting affected people with assistance.

About the Author

Jonathan Sharp is the Chief Financial Officer at Environmental Litigation Group, P.C. The law firm helps military and civilian firefighters who suffer from toxic exposure during active duty or while on the job. Jonathan Sharp evaluates cases, manages firm assets, and conducts financial analysis.