In response to growing concerns about disruptions and delays in healthcare benefits for 9/11 first responders and survivors, New York State Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara has introduced the 9/11 First Responders Emergency Healthcare Access Act. This legislation seeks to ensure timely and uninterrupted care for all those who risked everything in service to the nation.

Recent developments have underscored the challenges responders and survivors continue to face when navigating complex healthcare systems, often encountering delays that jeopardize their access to vital care and support. These disruptions threaten the health and well-being of individuals who are still living with the long-term consequences of their heroic actions on September 11, 2001.

“The men and women who stood tall on one of our darkest days should never have to wait for the care they deserve,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “This legislation seeks to ensure that, here in New York, we will always be ready to provide immediate support when it’s needed most.”

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Emergency Coverage Bridge Fund: Establishes a fund of up to $5 million annually to cover medical treatments, prescriptions, and urgent care when claims are delayed, under appeal, or when an immediate health- related need arises.
• Streamlined State Healthcare Access: Guarantees equal and timely access for all eligible 9/11 responders and survivors – whether they are firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, or civilian survivors. Access will be based solely on medical urgency and clinical need rather than occupational status.
• Oversight and Accountability: Creates a dedicated task force to monitor the program, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and reach those who need them most – without unnecessary administrative delays.

As concerns grow over the long-term stability of healthcare benefits for 9/11 responders, Santabarbara’s legislation offers a safeguard to ensure that New York’s heroes are never left without access to essential care. The bill strengthens the state’s leadership role in supporting those who protected us when it mattered most.

“New York has always led the way in supporting our 9/11 responders,” Santabarbara added. “This bill reinforces that commitment by ensuring care is always available – without delay, disruption, or red tape. Every responder and survivor will be treated equally, with care prioritized based on medical necessity, not status or role.”

The legislation is expected to gain bipartisan support and move swiftly through the New York State Assembly. If passed, the law will take effect immediately, ensuring that no 9/11 responder or survivor faces a gap in critical care.