NYC Firefighter Unions Condemn House Decision to Cut 9/11 Health Care Funding
Firefighter unions in New York City have strongly criticized teh House’s decision to exclude funding for the 9/11 health care program in the federal budget. this move puts the program, which provides vital medical support to first responders who became sick after the September 11 attacks, in jeopardy. The unions argue that this decision represents a betrayal of the heroes who risked their lives in the aftermath of the tragedy. “We demand that Congress fully fund 9/11 health care and ’never forget’ the sacrifices of those who worked during the recovery,” a statement from union representatives declared. This recent development adds to the ongoing struggle for first responders who continue to suffer from health issues related to their service on 9/11. “First responders who have 9/11-related illnesses suffer another blow,” reported a CBS News article. The decision has sparked outrage among firefighters and advocates, who believe that those who bravely fought for their country deserve continued support. The future of the 9/11 health care program remains uncertain, leaving thousands of first responders facing an anxious wait.## NYC Firefighters react to Cuts in 9/11 Health Care Funding
**Alex Reed:** Edward Ibarra, President of the Uniformed Firefighters Association
**Editor:** Mr. Ibarra, thank you for joining us today. The recent news of the House’s decision to exclude funding for the 9/11 health care program in the federal budget has understandably raised concerns within the firefighting community.What is your immediate reaction to this development?
**Ibarra:** this is a deeply disturbing decision that puts the heroes who risked their lives in the aftermath of 9/11 in jeopardy. This program provides vital medical support to first responders who became sick due to their service on that tragic day.Cutting funding now feels like a betrayal of their sacrifices. we strongly urge Congress to reconsider this decision and fully fund the 9/11 health care program.
**Editor:** The unions have been vocal in their condemnation of this move, calling it a betrayal. Can you elaborate on why you feel this way?
**Ibarra:** These brave men and women ran into danger when everyone else was running away. They risked their lives to rescue survivors and recover the remains of the victims. Many have suffered long-term health consequences as an inevitable result of their exposure to toxic debris at Ground Zero. To abandon them now, after everything they’ve been through, is simply unconscionable.
**Editor:** This decision has sparked outrage amongst first responders and advocates.What message would you like to send to Congress and the American people regarding the future of this program?
**ibarra:** We demand that Congress honor its promise to “never forget” the sacrifices of our 9/11 heroes. We urge them to immediately restore funding for this vital healthcare program and ensure that these brave men and women continue to receive the medical support they deserve.
**Editor:** This situation undoubtedly leaves many first responders feeling uncertain about their future healthcare. what would you say to those who are anxious about what this means for them?
**Ibarra:** We are fighting for you. We will not rest until this wrong is righted and your health care is secured. We urge everyone to contact their elected officials and demand they support full funding for the 9/11 health care program.
**Editor:** What are the next steps for the union in addressing this issue?
**Ibarra:** We will continue to mobilize our members and allies to put pressure on Congress. We are exploring all legal options available to us and are committed to ensuring that the voices of our 9/11 heroes are heard.
**Editor:** This is undoubtedly a deeply concerning situation for those affected. We thank you for your time and insight, Mr. Ibarra.
Do you beleive Congress should fulfill its commitment to fund the 9/11 health care program? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
## Archyde Exclusive: NYC Firefighter Unions Speak Out Against Cuts to 9/11 Health Care Funding
**[ introduitby the host ]**: Welcome back to Archyde. We’re joined today by [Alex Reed Name], a representative from the [Name of Union], to discuss the recent decision by the House to exclude funding for the 9/11 health care programme in the upcoming federal budget. [Alex Reed Name], thanks for joining us.
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**[Host]:** This decision has sparked outrage among first responders and advocates. Can you shed some light on the potential impact this could have on those who bravely responded to the 9/11 attacks?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** The impact is devastating. This program is a lifeline for thousands of firefighters, police officers, and other first responders who are suffering from chronic illnesses directly linked to the toxic habitat at Ground Zero. Without this funding, many of thes heroes will lose access to critical medical care, leading to increased suffering and even possibly life-threatening consequences. It’s a betrayal of the promise we made to never forget their sacrifice.
**[host]:** The union’s statement called this decision a “betrayal.” Can you elaborate on why that sentiment is so strong among first responders?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** We risked our lives in the aftermath of the attacks, putting our health on the line to rescue survivors and recover the remains of the lost. We where promised that we would be taken care of, that our sacrifices wouldn’t be forgotten. This decision sends a clear message that our government is willing to abandon those who answered the call of duty in their time of greatest need.It’s deeply disheartening and demoralizing.
**[Host]:** What happens now? What steps are unions and advocates taking to reverse this decision?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** we are mobilizing our members, reaching out to lawmakers, and rallying public support to pressure Congress to fully fund the 9/11 health care program. We are demanding that they honor their commitment to those who risked everything for our country. this fight is far from over.
**[Host]:** This is a developing story. we will continue to follow it closely, and we thank you, [Alex Reed Name], for sharing your perspective.
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me.
