Congressman Nadler (left) with Senator Clinton

Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) will join 9/11 health experts, residents, families, workers, and first responders of the World Trade Center disaster tomorrow, Thursday, September 7, to announce the introduction of the 9/11 Comprehensive Health Benefits Act. Companion legislation will be introduced in by Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton in the Senate. The legislation represents an entirely new approach to providing individuals with illnesses related to 9/11 access to health benefits through the Federal Government.

The findings of the Mt. Sinai Study of 9/11 first responders and the guidelines released by the New York City Department of Health confirm the health crisis caused by the World Trade Center disaster. And the new plan for a Bellevue Hospital 9/11 treatment program, announced by Mayor Bloomberg on Tuesday, while a good start, is limited in time, scope and resources. Unfortunately, there is currently no way for the 9/11-affected populations to receive comprehensive, long-term health care to treat illnesses caused by exposure to the toxic dust and debris. The 9/11 Comprehensive Health Benefits Act would be a sensible, easy-to-access, and cost-effective way to provide comprehensive and long-term medical treatment for affected individuals, with no additional financial burden on the City and State.

When: Thursday, September 7, 2006, 10 A.M.

Where: Ground Zero, Corner of Vesey St. and Church St. Next to Path Terminal

Jerrold Nadler has served in Congress since 1992. He represents New York's 8th Congressional District, which includes parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn, as well as the site of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks.