US funding law boosts 9/11 health programme and fire service grants
Iain Hoey
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One 9/11 law, two fire service impacts
The US government has been funded through Sept. 30, 2026 under a 2026 funding package signed into law by President Donald Trump.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) said the package advances priorities including protecting health care for 9/11 responders through the World Trade Center Health Program and increasing fire service staffing and equipment grants nationwide.
9/11 World Trade Center Health Program funding fix
The IAFF said the legislation includes a fix to the World Trade Center Health Program.
The package incorporates key components of the IAFF-backed 9/11 Responders and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act.
The IAFF said this corrects the programme’s funding formula and supports long-term solvency.
Kelly said: “Fire fighters who responded to the terrorist attack at Ground Zero answered the call without hesitation.
“‘Never forget’ means making sure these brave men and women have access to the healthcare they need to combat the long-term illnesses they’re facing due to their service on 9/11.”
Slevin said Congress is upholding its promise to 9/11 responders by fully funding the WTCHP.
Slevin said: “The WTC Health Program is critical for the thousands of first responders already diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses – and for all those who will be diagnosed in the years ahead.
“As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11th, New Yorkers – and all those who rushed to Ground Zero – now know this vital program will continue to be there for them.”
Fire service grants and other provisions
The IAFF said the bill increases both the Assistance for Firefighters Grant (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programmes by 5.5%.
The IAFF said this makes more than $342 million available nationwide as departments face staffing shortages.
Departments can use the funds to hire additional fire fighters and acquire new apparatus.
Departments can use the funds to better protect communities and fire fighters on the job.
The bill includes a $1 million increase for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)’s National Fire Fighter Cancer Registry.
The bill includes a two-year extension for Medicare Ambulance Extender Payments.
The bill includes the IAFF-endorsed Honoring Our Living Donor (HOLD) Act, which improves income replacement for living organ donors who are temporarily unable to return to work while recovering from their surgery.
