Trump admin reinstates World Trade Center Health Program staff following cuts
In an exclusive report by Fox News, it was revealed that the Trump administration’s Health and Human Services Department (HHS) had sent out reinstatement notices to staff members who were part of a federal healthcare program for 9/11 survivors. This move came after a reduction in force at HHS and its subagencies as part of Trump’s efforts to streamline the federal government.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced in mid-February that they would be facing cuts that would reduce the agency’s workforce by roughly one-tenth. As a result, 16 workers at the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) were let go, causing concern among both Democrats and Republicans.
New York Republican Rep. Mike Lawler, whose district is home to many 9/11 first responders, expressed his concerns about the cuts and stated that he was actively communicating with the Trump administration regarding the matter. Senator Chuck Schumer also voiced his worries about the impact of the cuts on the healthcare of 9/11 heroes.
Following political pressure in early April, the Trump administration eventually reinstated WTCHP Administrator Dr. John Howard to his role, along with all the staff members who were let go as part of the administration’s efforts to optimize the federal government. One of the 16 staffers had already accepted a resignation buyout offered by the administration.
Dr. John Howard expressed his gratitude for the department’s swift action in addressing the reinstatement notices and returning critical program staff to work. The WTCHP, established in 2010 as part of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, aims to provide healthcare services to 9/11 victims, first responders, and others exposed to harmful contaminants during the attacks.
The program, operated by the CDC’s National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, ensures that patients affected by the 9/11 attacks have zero out-of-pocket costs for any health complications resulting from the attacks. It is set to run until 2090 and covers individuals impacted by the attacks in New York, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Senator Schumer highlighted the chaos surrounding the administration’s decisions regarding the WTCHP and emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and support for the program. The reinstatements of the staff members were seen as a positive step in ensuring the program’s continuity and providing crucial services to 9/11 responders and survivors.
