U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney and Jerrold Nadler, authors of H.R. 847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, expressed their disappointment following today’s vote on the Zadroga Act in the U.S. Senate.  Even though it was supported by 58 Senators, the Senate failed to reach agreement to begin debate on the bill.

“It’s sad that Senate Republicans won’t even allow a debate on helping sick and dying 9/11 rescuers and survivors – but since that is the case, I am urging my House colleagues to add the Zadroga Act to the tax cut package.  Health care for Americans who are ailing because of 9/11 should not be held hostage to partisan politics,” Maloney said.  “The Senate must pass the Zadroga Act before the end of the year if it is to have any realistic chance of becoming law.  I know that Senators Gillibrand and Schumer are working hard and are going to continue to do everything they can to provide 9/11 responders and survivors with the care they need and deserve.”    

“I’m extremely disappointed that the Senate Republicans have shown their unwillingness to allow debate on the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act,” said Nadler.  “That show of partisanship is callous, calculated and extremely selfish in the face of thousands of 9/11 responders and survivors who are now sick and dying.  I will continue to work diligently with my colleagues and the House Leadership to find another way to pass the bill during the remaining days of the session.”