Workers finally agreed to a settlement to be paid by New York City to those exposed to toxic dust after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Image by Chor Ip.
A settlement was finally reached by workers who were exposed to debris that ended up being toxic from the September 11 attacks by terrorists in 2001. Many first responders, who claim they did not have the proper equipment or preparation for what they faced, have experienced respiratory issues and other health problems in the years following.
Tuesday night was the deadline for approval by plaintiffs. 95 percent of the 10,000 or so workers were required to approve the settlement deal. At least $625 million will be paid out by the city.
Michael Bloomberg, New York City’s Mayor, claimed the deal was “a fair and just resolution of these claims, protecting those who came to the aid of this city when we needed it most.”
The settlement is not the end of the road for both those who signed onto the deal as well as those who rejected it. Another bill, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, is a $7.4 billion measure that would provide medical assistance to workers and survivors exposed to dangerous dust and toxins in the World Trade Center attacks.
The bill was passed by the House in September. It’s now in the hands of the U.S. Senate. State lawmakers, as well as Mayor Bloomberg, asked the Senate to pass the bill.
