Port Washington, New York (PRWEB) July 24, 2015
Parker Waichman LLP, a national law firm that has spent many years fighting to ensure that the heroes of the 9/11 terrorist attacks are never forgotten, comments on recent statistics issued by the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). According to program statistics issued on July 20, 2015, the Fund has completed 12,712 eligibility decisions and determined that 11,770 claimants are eligible for compensation as of June 30, 2015. Of the 7,193 eligible claimants who have submitted complete compensation claims, the Fund has made 5,636 determinations totaling $1,310,149,991.03.
Sick or injured 9/11 survivors or responders who were at the World Trade Center (WTC); the Pentagon; or the Shanksville, Pennsylvania site may seek compensation through the VCF. The Fund also provides compensation to the families of responders who died due to a 9/11-related illness or injury. Parker Waichman, who has worked with a number of 9/11 survivors throughout the years, comments that the Fund provides benefits to 9/11 heroes throughout the country. The latest statistics reveal that New York State has the largest number of claimants at 46,939, followed by 4,346 registered in New Jersey. Florida, where the firm has an office dedicated to helping 9/11 responders, reports 1,899 claimants registered.
“We are pleased to see the VCF moving forward with compensation determinations,” said Matthew J. McCauley, Senior Litigation Counsel at Parker Waichman. “Many responders suffered from injuries and illnesses related to 9/11, and this compensation will help support these selfless individuals, as well as their families. However, this underscores the importance of renewing the Zadroga act as these responders are currently being paid only 10% of their award because of the uncertainty of funds being available to fully compensate them,” Mr. McCauley added.
Parker Waichman also comments that the VCF was reopened through the Zadroga Act, which is due to expire unless Congress takes action. The Act also established the WTC Health Program, which provides medical treatment and monitoring to responders and survivors.
“While it is encouraging to see compensation determinations being made for 9/11 responders and survivors, this is also a stark reminder that Zadroga benefits will soon come to an end unless the Act is reauthorized,” said Gary Falkowitz, Managing Attorney at Parker Waichman. “As a firm that has fought for 9/11 heroes since the beginning, we understand the importance of renewing the Zadroga Act and continuing to provide benefits for these individuals.”
Parker Waichman actively worked toward the 2010 passage of the Zadroga Act, including taking part in lobbying efforts and trips to the nation's capital, often along with the firm's clients—other responders and survivors.
The firm continues to support the Zadroga Act and remains dedicated to fighting for the rights of responders and survivors. In fact, Parker Waichman was recently involved in the “Take Action” tool that allows responders, survivors, and advocates the ability to review their Congresspersons' activities concerning the upcoming expiration of the James Zadroga Act. Parker Waichman assisted with the research on, and creation of, the Tool, which may be accessed at: Renew 911 Health Organization's website.
Parker Waichman continues to fight, alongside Ground Zero first responders, survivors, and their advocates, to help ensure passage of the Zadroga Act and its amendments, and vows to continue its efforts to safeguard these heroes and ensure that they receive all of the Zadroga Act compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one are eligible for compensation under the Zadroga Act, and would like assistance with your claim, please visit Parker Waichman's website or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).