By News Staff
WASHINGTON, D.C. — IAFF President Harold Schaitberger is putting pressure on the Trump administration to publicly back the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund.
According to The Hill, Schaitberger said the bill is not receiving enough White House support. The 9/11 fund covers first responders who suffer from illnesses connected to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
“Quite honestly, it would also be helpful if the administration would kind of weigh in and I haven’t really seen any specific indication from them on where they stand,” Schaitberger said. “I do find it interesting that with the president and an administration that does offer their strong support for law enforcement, first responders on a bill that’s so critically important, we haven’t seen any indication of that support at least at this time,” he added.
The House Committee has voted to extend the funds through 2090. The next step is a full House consideration, and, once approved, would move to the Senate for consideration.
Schaitberger also praised Jon Stewart for his testimony to Congress as the advocate and comedian slammed the lack of attendance at the hearing. After Stewart’s plea to Congress, the House committee voted unanimously to extend the 9/11 funds.