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By Doug Cunningham

A new bill in Congress would guarantee federally funded health care for 9/11 first responders, clean-up workers, residents and students in the area of the attack. Robert Spencer is with The World trade Center Community-Labor Coalition.

[Spencer]: “We have a situation where it’s sort of a national disgrace that the federal government has yet to make a firm, ongoing sort of commitment to the long-term health needs of those injured by 9/11. And so it’s really past due for Congress and the Bush administration to do the right thing here.”

The bill would create “Centers of Excellence” to centralize health data and offer ongoing treatment. The bill would also re-open a compensation fund for 9/11 victims. Spencer says New York’s congressional delegation and other sponsors of the bill are committed to getting this passed.

[Spencer2]: “I hope the rest of the Congress takes it seriously and passes it – and this current administration doesn’t block and signs it.”