New resources for employers to help 9/11 survivors register for federal benefits

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New York State has launched a new initiative to help survivors of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks register for federal benefits, including through the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. An online toolkit – complete with posters for breakrooms, announcements at company meetings and more – is now available for employers to share relevant resources with employees.

“While New York’s recovery from the horrific terrorist attacks on 9/11 has been remarkable, there are still thousands of New Yorkers, including office and finance professionals, retail and service workers, building and maintenance staff and hospitality and delivery people who are suffering from health conditions that resulted from the events of that devastating day,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a news release about the initiative.

“These resources, available at no cost to businesses, will ensure that the victims of 9/11 are made aware of the substantial benefits available,” she added.

The toolkit includes instructions and information to share with current and former employees about the World Trade Center Health Program and September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.  Designed by Empire State Development, the toolkit can be found here and will also be distributed to businesses through  New York State agencies.

The World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund have served tens of thousands of residents, workers, first-responders and students with medical care provided and more than $14.25 billion in compensation awarded since 2011, according to the state. More information on both programs, including how to enroll or register, is available on the newly created website,  ny.gov/september11.

According to the 9/11 Notice Act, businesses in the “New York City disaster area” are required to ensure that affected individuals are made aware of their rights to register for the two federal programs, which provide medical care and compensation for eligible individuals with WTC-related illnesses.