A decision whether to compensate individuals suffering from various types of cancer due to their exposure to debris and dust at ground zero is expected within the next several days.
The Zadroga Act, passed in 2011, allocated $4.3 billion in compensation for individuals diagnosed with respiratory problems resulting from their exposure to WTC debris, dust and smoke. However, others who experienced the same exposure have been diagnosed with cancer, which is not currently covered under the Zadroga Act. This past March, an advisory committee recommended that 14 types of cancer should also be covered by the Victims Compensation Fund.
The New York Times has reported that the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Dr. John Howard, is expected in the near future to decide whether individuals exposed to dust and debris from the collapse of the Twin Towers, and diagnosed with cancer, can receive compensation. Cancer victims hoping for the expansion of the fund include rescue workers, volunteers, and residents who were exposed to the smoke and toxic substances following the WTC attacks. Dr. Howard’s decision is expected as soon as tomorrow, June 2, 2012.
