Sick 9/11 responders are being left behind amid federal spending battle

Services have been cut and restored following outcry, but staffing issues remain

Rescue workers stand amid the rubble of the World Trade Center following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Rescue workers stand amid the rubble of the World Trade Center following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks
(Image credit: Kevin Smith / WireImage via Getty Images)

Many first responders to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks have developed cancer and other illnesses from being at Ground Zero two decades ago, and the World Trade Center Health Program has always provided a lifeline for these workers. But they still face a fight for affordable health care 24 years later, and recent pendulum swings of the federal budget have renewed concerns that the program could be permanently gutted.

What is happening with the 9/11 first responder program?

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.