Congress Passes Lifetime Funding for the World Trade Center Health Program

After years of advocacy and uncertainty, there is finally important and encouraging news for 9/11 responders and survivors across the country. The House has passed legislation that fully funds the World Trade Center Health Program for its lifetime, ensuring uninterrupted medical care for those suffering from 9/11 related illnesses.

What This Means for 9/11 Victims

On January 22, 2026, Congressman Andrew Garbarino announced that the FY 2026 appropriations minibus package includes full lifetime funding for the World Trade Center Health Program. This funding correction ensures that responders and victims will continue receiving the medical care they were promised, without fear of service cuts or delays.

For years, outdated funding formulas failed to keep pace with rising medical costs. This created the risk of reduced care for individuals battling cancer, respiratory illness, and mental health conditions linked to the toxic dust exposure at Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and the Shanksville crash site. That risk has now been addressed, with additional funding currently covering all costs up until at least 2040.

Advocates for 9/11 responders and survivors have emphasized that this funding certainty allows individuals to focus on their health, not bureaucracy. It also ensures that future victims who develop 9/11 related conditions will have access to care when they need it.

Who Is Covered by the World Trade Center Health Program

The World Trade Center Health Program provides medical monitoring and treatment for more than 140,000 people nationwide, including:

• First responders and recovery workers

• Victims who lived, worked, or attended school in lower Manhattan

• Pentagon and Shanksville responders

• Children exposed to toxins during and after September 11, 2001

Participants come from every state, making this a truly national program.

Why This Matters Now and in the Future

Nearly 25 years after September 11, people are still being diagnosed with serious illnesses and cancers tied to toxic exposure. This legislation ensures that care will be available not only for those currently enrolled, but also for those who may need to join the program in the future.

Lifetime funding provides peace of mind, dignity, and security for the victims who continue to live with the long term consequences of that day.

Standing With 9/11 Victims Nationwide

At Hansen & Rosasco, we stand with 9/11 victims across the United States. While this legislation is a major victory, legal and medical support remains critical for those affected by 9/11 related illnesses.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with any type of cancer or breathing condition you may be eligible for free lifetime 9/11-related healthcare PLUS significant financial compensation from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

Now that the House has passed this measure to fully fund the WTC Health Program, we await the Senate's final vote of approval next week.

Never forget means never stopping the fight for those who sacrificed so much.