Kaine Cosponsors Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Fix World Trade Center Health Program Funding Shortfall

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced he is cosponsoring the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025, legislation that would extend funding that benefits 9/11 responders and survivors.

“9/11 was one of the most horrific and painful days in American history,” said Kaine. “It is our responsibility to permanently fund the health care program that the thousands of brave souls—who risked their lives to save their fellow Americans—rely on. I am proud to uphold our promise to never forget by supporting our first responders and survivors, many of whom continue to face grave, longstanding health issues.”

Despite recent congressional action, the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) continues to face an impending funding shortfall. As a result, by October 2028, the program will be forced to close enrollment to new 9/11 responders and survivors seeking benefits, and existing enrollees will face direct cuts to their care and be denied medical monitoring and treatment. 

The 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2025 would update the program’s outdated funding formula to ensure adequate funding until the program’s expiration in 2090. The bill would also increase funding for data collection on 9/11-related conditions and expand access to mental health care for program members. 

This legislation is led by U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Representatives Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-2), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), and Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12). 

Full text of the legislation is available here.

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