Republicans in Washington Shortchanging 9/11 First Responders, Says DNC

 

To: National Desk

Contact: Damien LaVera of the Democratic National Committee, 202-863-8148

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 /U.S. Newswire/ -- For weeks, Republicans in Congress have been pushing radical budget cuts to offset the cost of extending more than $60 billion in tax cuts for wealthy investors that are set to expire in 2008. As part of this effort, the Associated Press today reported that Republicans in Congress are looking to cut $125 million that had been promised to "treat sick and injured ground zero workers" after 9/11.

The money, part of the $20 billion President Bush initially pledged to New York in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, is intended to cover "increased worker compensation costs" stemming from the attacks and the subsequent clean-up effort. (Associated Press, 11/16/05)

Democratic National Committee Spokesman Damien LaVera today called on Republicans in Washington to restore funding promised to the heroes of 9/11:

"Republicans in Washington are sacrificing our promises to the heroes of 9/11 on the altar of new tax cuts for special interests. By breaking our promise to the emergency workers and others who became ill working to clean up Ground Zero, Republicans in Washington are turning their backs on the values that were on display in the days and weeks following 9/11.

"Together, America can do better. While the Republicans in Congress are more interested in giving handouts to special interests, Democrats are working to enact a budget that reflects America's priorities. Instead of shortchanging the September 11th first responders, Republicans in Washington should join us in standing up for ordinary American families."

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