Lawmakers push to restore World Trade Center care
A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers from New York and the surrounding region is urging President Donald Trump to reverse deep staffing cuts to the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). The program provides critical care to thousands of 9/11 responders and survivors. The push comes as Congress advances legislation to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.
In a joint letter, lawmakers criticized the Trump administration’s decision to terminate key staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The cuts included the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, who had overseen the program since its inception. Lawmakers warned that eliminating NIOSH staff would disrupt certifications for new health conditions, delay research grants, and weaken patient services.
“We were appalled at the recent announcement that HHS cut two-thirds of the staff at NIOSH,” wrote Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, Chuck Schumer, and Representatives Andrew Garbarino, Hakeem Jeffries, Jerry Nadler, and Dan Goldman, among others. “These cuts interfere with program operations and put the care of 9/11 responders and survivors at risk.”
Advocates Say Cuts Endanger Lives
Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of Citizens for Extension of the James Zadroga Act, said the staffing reduction threatens the entire program.
“This wasn’t a scalpel or even a chainsaw — this was a bulldozer that is leveling the program,” Chevat said.
According to lawmakers, the WTCHP does not employ its own medical doctors or epidemiologists. It relies entirely on NIOSH experts to certify health conditions and evaluate petitions for new illnesses. Dr. Howard played a central role in those decisions. Without him and his team, the program cannot meet its legal and medical obligations.
In addition, the program uses NIOSH staff to manage $20 million in annual research funding. It also depends on NIOSH’s Office of Acquisition Services to oversee a nationwide network of health providers.
Lawmakers Demand Answers by April 9
The letter includes several urgent questions. Lawmakers asked who will certify new medical cases and review pending petitions to cover autoimmune and heart conditions. They also questioned who will handle grant decisions and contracts in the absence of NIOSH staff.
They gave the administration until April 9 to respond.
WTCHP: Lifeline for 9/11 Responders and Survivors
Congress established the WTCHP in 2011 and reauthorized it in 2015. In 2023, lawmakers added another $676 million to the program. Today, the WTCHP serves more than 137,000 people. These include first responders, downtown residents, and volunteers from all 50 states who helped after the attacks.
Toxic dust, debris, and long-term exposure continue to cause cancers, respiratory illnesses, and other health complications. Lawmakers say this is no time to cut support.
“Over 400,000 people were exposed,” the letter states. “Many still live with or will develop serious conditions caused by 9/11. We must protect their access to care.”
25th Anniversary Coin Bill Moves Forward
Meanwhile, Congress is preparing to honor the 25th anniversary of 9/11 in 2026. Senators Gillibrand, Schumer, and Shelley Moore Capito introduced the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act. The bill would allow the U.S. Mint to produce limited-edition silver and gold coins. Proceeds would support the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.
“These coins are a promise to never forget,” said Gillibrand. “They support the museum and help keep this history alive for future generations.”
Companion legislation in the House has bipartisan backing from Representatives Dan Goldman and Andrew Garbarino. The Museum’s leadership called the bill a vital step toward preserving the legacy of 9/11.
The Stakes Are High
Although the commemorative coin honors the past, the future of 9/11 survivor care hangs in the balance. Lawmakers say the Trump administration’s cuts are not just bureaucratic decisions—they impact real people.
“Congress has continually reaffirmed its bipartisan commitment,” the letter concludes. “We urge the president to reverse these cuts and protect the health and dignity of those who gave so much.”
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