New York State lawmakers pass legislation to help 9/11 victims

ALBANY, NY (Erie News Now)--This year as the 9/11 attack comes close to it's 22nd anniversary, New York State lawmakers pass a bill requiring employers to notify past and present employees of their potential eligibility for victim compensation and free healthcare through the World Trade Center Health program. 

Michael Barasch, a survivor and managing attorney for Barasch & McGarry lawyers for the 9/11 community, said this legislation will help thousands of New Yorkers who may be suffering from health issues and the loss of a loved one. 

“Those buildings were on fire for ninety-nine days. You’d get out of the subway and the smell would just hit you,” Barasch said. "It’s not a coincidence that so many people in the downtown offices are getting sick. And it’s just heartbreaking that they don’t realize they’re entitled to this free healthcare and significant compensation." 

Barasch, who two months ago was diagnosed with skin cancer as a result of exposure to polluted air from 9/11, said there are many cancers linked to the World Trade Center toxins. 

Some lawmakers said this legislation is important for New Yorkers who to this day are developing health issues. 

“It’s important that individuals get this notice so that they’re aware of what benefits might be available for them,” said Sen. Tom O’Mara (R-Big Flats). 

The legislation is now one of hundreds on the Governor's desk for her review. 

Some lawmakers said they believe Gov. Kathy Hochul will sign the bill. 

9/11 victims can submit a claim through the compensation fund website.