Hansen & Rosasco, LLP

Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men around the world, affecting millions of men globally. But did you know there's a shocking connection between the devastating terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and an increased risk of prostate cancer? September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s a good time to delve into the facts about prostate cancer and 9/11 exposure, explore symptoms of prostate cancer, and consider the treatment options and avenues for financial compensation that are available to 9/11 first responders and survivors through the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.

Article by Troy Rosasco, Published in the New York Law Journal

Troy Rosasco quoted in Politico:

NY Governor Signs the 9/11 Notice Act: Educating Civilian Victims Eligible For Lifetime 9/11 Healthcare and Compensation

On September 11th, 2023, the New York State Governor signed legislation (S. 2946-B/A. 75-B), the “9/11 Notice Act.” This new law requires employers to inform employees of the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund and the World Trade Center Health Program. This new legislation will help alert over 360,000 civilian survivors of 9/11 of their eligibility to file for free lifetime medical care and substantial compensation for illnesses such as 69 types of cancer.  

Awards made by the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) are not subject to federal taxes, even any part of a VCF award that is to replace lost earnings or wages. IRS Publication 3920 is clear that any amounts awarded and paid by the VCF are not income subject to taxes: ”Payments from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund of 2001 are not included in income.”

Partner Troy Rosasco was recently quoted on DailyMail.com in the article 9/11 families call Biden administration plea deal a 'betrayal' 

Published on LegalReader.com

Were you in Lower Manhattan for any reason between September 11, 2001 and July 30, 2002? Since then have you been diagnosed with any type of cancer or breathing condition?  If so, you may be entitled to significant compensation and free lifetime medical care from the federal government. Congress passed the James Zadroga Act in 2010 and re-opened the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund to compensate victims and families for illnesses arising out of exposure to toxins in lower Manhattan after the Twin Towers fell.  Sixty nine + different cancers are now covered and eligible victims may be entitled to hundreds of thousands of tax free compensation in addition to free lifetime medical care. However, navigating the federal bureaucracy to obtain these valuable benefits can be difficult for anyone – much less someone who is dealing with a serious illness.

After the 9/11 attacks, between 400,000 and 500,000 civilian workers, residents, and students were exposed to the millions of pounds of toxins that were released and hung in the air and on the ground until mid 2002. Tens of thousands of these people have developed 9/11-related illnesses, including various types of 9/11 cancers and aerodigestive disorders.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a type of cancer associated with 9/11 exposure, it is crucial to be informed about the rights and job protections available to you. The legal framework surrounding 9/11-related cancers and illnesses can be complex, but a clear understanding of these laws and the corresponding job protections can help safeguard your employment while you undergo necessary medical care and recovery. 

Partner Troy Rosasco was quoted in the abc News 10 article NYS expanding awareness of 9/11 compensation program published on June 3rd.