Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told a group of first responders and survivors of the attacks on the World Trade Center that he will hold a vote in August to renew the September 11th Victims Compensation Fund.
The legislation gives permanent funding for the medical treatment of first responders and survivors of September 11. It has 60 cosponsors in the Senate and over 300 in the House.
Attorney Michael Barasch represents over 15,000 affected emergency personnel and residents. He said he is cautious of getting too excited about the vote. The Senate is scheduled to be in recess during the month of August.
“I do believe it will happen, but you’re dealing with Congress who can’t agree what day of the week it is. So I’ll believe it when I see it. I don’t want anyone going out and popping the corks on the champagne yet.”
It is unclear whether the vote will be for a permanent extension or a five-year renewal of the fund.
