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Senate Passes 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Bill

Published

7 years ago

July 23, 2019

The Senate passed a bill 97-2 Tuesday to fund the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund through 2090, compensating 9/11 first responders and victims who were injured during the 2001 terrorist attacks.

The bill was titled “The Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act” after for the three heroic NYPD and FDNY members who passed away from health complications due to their work at Ground Zero.

According to Roll Call, the new legislation would extend the life of the fund through fiscal 2090, ensuring access to compensation for all eligible victims. The number of victims suffering health problems who become eligible for the fund keeps rising, in part because of the time lag involved in diagnosing and developing cancer.

About 410,000 people were exposed to contaminants at Ground Zero, including 90,000 first-responders, according to the Congressional Budget Office, which cited data from New York City’s World Trade Center Health Registry.

While 22,400 claimants already have received payments from the fund, an additional 17,600 remain under review. And the CBO projected that 18,100 more claims would be filed and paid after Oct. 1 this year.

Last week, , FDNY firefighter (Engine 91) Richard Driscoll of Monroe (Orange County) passed away from 9/11-related illness. He is the 200th to die from a 9/11-related illness.

Watch Fox News Full Coverage of the Senate voting of the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund Bill. It is followed by a press conference with NY elected officials and members of the FDNY.

Hear from 9/11 first responder advocate John Feal on passage of bill on 9/11 victims compensation fund

9/11 first responder advocate John Feal on passage of bill on 9/11 victims compensation fund: "Passing this legislation—there's no joy. There's no comfort. Yes, I cried with Jon. But that was to exhale. That was to get 18 years of pain and suffering out." https://t.co/x3KynNXfbi pic.twitter.com/VC85DPqXbQ

— ABC News (@ABC) 23 Iúil 2019

John Stewart comments on the long fight to get the legislation passed.

NEW: Jon Stewart on Senate passage of bill making 9/11 victims compensation fund permanent: "We can never repay all that the 9/11 community has done for our country. But we can stop penalizing them." https://t.co/lXA7kZeCIe pic.twitter.com/vevi78vl48

— ABC News (@ABC) 23 Iúil 2019

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on the passing of the legislation.

NEW: Kirsten Gillibrand on Senate passage of bill making 9/11 victims compensation fund permanent: "Today is not a celebration. It's a deep sigh of relief." https://t.co/u8emYmVavI pic.twitter.com/uUZdJ4Bges

— ABC News (@ABC) 23 Iúil 2019

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Update: Rockland County YouthFest Returns March 29 at RCC

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Rockland County will host its annual YouthFest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rockland Community College.

The free, family-friendly event is one of the largest community gatherings in the county, bringing together more than 150 local agencies, organizations, and service providers focused on youth and family programs.

YouthFest offers a wide range of activities, including interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, performances, and hands-on experiences for children and teens. Families can also enjoy entertainment, games, and attractions throughout the day while learning about resources available across Rockland County.

The event is held in conjunction with Rockland County Government Day, giving residents an opportunity to connect with county departments and learn more about public services and programs.

Organized by the Rockland County Youth Bureau, YouthFest draws thousands of attendees each year and serves as a one-stop destination for families seeking information, support services, and recreational opportunities.

Admission is free and open to the public.

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Frozen Toilet During Extreme Cold? What Homeowners Should and Shouldn’t Do

Published

3 months ago

January 29, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

With freezing temperatures expected across Rockland County, Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant property damage and even lead to fires.

Officials recommend allowing faucets to drip slightly, especially overnight, to keep water moving through pipes. Residents should also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.

Fire and Emergency Services advises keeping homes heated to at least 55 degrees, even when away, and insulating exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Residents are warned never to use open flames or unsafe heating devices to thaw frozen pipes.

If a pipe does freeze, officials recommend using a hair dryer or warm air to thaw it safely. Torches or other open-flame methods should never be used. A frozen toilet is inconvenient, but rushing the fix can turn a minor problem into major damage. Slow, careful warming is the safest solution, and professional help should be sought if the issue persists.

In the event of a burst pipe or water emergency, residents are urged to shut off the water immediately and contact emergency services or a licensed professional if needed.

Officials remind residents to stay warm, stay safe, and take preventative steps to protect their homes during extreme cold weather.