Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen face criticism over 9/11 health program vote

Democratic Representatives Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen are facing criticism from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) for voting against federal bill HR 7148. Although both representatives had previously issued a press release in January expressing support for a bipartisan package to secure lifetime funding for the World Trade Center Health Program, they joined most House Democrats in voting against the compromise Senate bill in February.

The legislation, which passed in a narrow 217-214 vote to end a four-day partial government shutdown, included funding for the World Trade Center Health Program. This program provides medical coverage and care to 9/11 first responders and survivors, with updated formulas intended to address rising medical costs through 2040.

The NRCC characterized the vote as a betrayal of 9/11 heroes and survivors, alleging the representatives voted against the funding to align with their party. The bill also provided annual funding for several other departments, including Labor, Health and Human Services, and Transportation.