9/11 Health Program Faces Ongoing Staffing Crisis

The World Trade Center Health Program, which provides vital care for over 130,000 9/11 first responders and survivors, is facing severe disruptions due to repeated federal staffing cuts and ongoing administrative turmoil. Despite previous promises from the Trump administration to restore staffing, many positions have not been filled, leaving the program unable to meet the needs of its members. These shortages have caused significant delays in diagnosing and treating serious illnesses, such as cancers linked to 9/11 exposure. Survivors and first responders report increased anxiety and difficulties in accessing care and obtaining certification for program entry. Advocacy groups, lawmakers, and health officials warn that the situation threatens the government's commitment to the 9/11 community. Calls for urgent congressional intervention and restoration of services have intensified to ensure the program can fulfill its mission.