By Jessie Forand
NEW YORK — Individuals who believe they may have incurred health injuries due to the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 are encouraged to register for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund before the July 29 deadline.
According to the fund’s website, registering reserves the right for someone to file a claim later in life.
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Explained. https://t.co/ESN2P23h2k
— 9/11 Health Watch (@911HealthWatch) July 18, 2021
Long Island firefighters gathered last week at the Nassau County Firefighter’s Museum and Education Center to talk about the impending deadline, the Long Island Herald reported.
“It is not a matter of if, but when,” political activist John Feal said. “We want you to register — file a claim.”
Those who worked at Ground Zero following the attacks, first responder or not, can register, including those who performed duties related to construction, clean-up, debris removal, media members and those who lived, worked or attended school in the exposed area, the Herald reported.
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WHSU reported the deadline applies to families who lost someone to a 9/11-related cause before July 2019.
Those who don’t register before Thursday must do so within two years of a diagnosis or death from a 9/11-related illness.
“Less than 10% of the office workers, students, teachers and residents have enrolled. And that’s proof that they just don’t know that they’re entitled to the same benefits as the first responders,” Attorney Michael Barasch told the public radio station.