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From the Archives: President Obama Signs the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act

Summary: 
A look back at the signing of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act last year.
President Obama signs James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act

President Barack Obama signs H.R. 847, the “James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act” in Kailua, Hawaii, Jan. 2, 2011. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

“We will never forget the searing images of September 11, 2001. And we will never forget the selfless courage demonstrated by the firefighters, police officers, and first responders who risked their lives to save others.  In the face of unspeakable brutality and evil, these brave men and women demonstrated the enduring strength of our values and the American spirit.  Many who survived did not emerge from the dust and debris unscathed, facing continuing health problems as a result of their service.

-- President Barack Obama

On January 2, President Obama signed the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act into law, ensuring that rescue and recovery workers, residents, students, and others suffering from health consequences related to the World Trade Center disaster would be able to access the medical treatment they need.

The act established the World Trade Center Health Program, and expanded eligibilty for compensation under the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund of 2011.