Statement by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on Senator Mitch McConnell blocking the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act:
Senator McConnell recently said, “In Congress we have a responsibility to advocate for our servicemembers and veterans, and to ensure that they get the treatment they deserve during and after their service.” Yet in an opportunity to act on those words, Senator McConnell didn’t. He is utterly failing the first responders of September 11 – the first veterans of America’s current wars.
It is despicable and negligent for Senator McConnell to play politics with the lives and health of some of America’s bravest men and women. Senator McConnell should not stand in the way of a permanent and fully funded James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act.
Contact: Josh Goldstein (202) 637-5018