Before a packed Capitol Hill hearing room yesterday, the House Natural Resources Committee unanimously approved the National 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center Act to honor the nearly 3,000 people killed in the 2001 terror attacks, as well as the six people killed in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It was a truly rewarding day for the IAVA Team, which attended the vote.

The bipartisan bill (H.R. 3036), sponsored by Rep. Tom MacArthur (R-NJ), will designate the National September 11 Memorial at the World Trade Center site in New York City as a national memorial and authorize an annual grant to help secure the memorial site. IAVA strongly supports the measure.
 
“A federal recognition of this kind will solidify the memorial’s standing and recognize the endurance of the survivors, the bravery of those that risked their lives to save others, and the power of our free nation to overcome evil with good,” Rep. MacArthur said today in a release, which also notes IAVA’s support.
 
The IAVA Team is actively working with proponents of the measure, Committee and Congressional Leadership to bring the bill to final passage. We are encouraged that the bill may be considered by the full House of Representatives soon.
 
The Committee action comes just a few weeks after the IAVA-backed Zadroga Act was signed into law making permanent the health program for 9/11 First Responders. IAVA will never forget the victims and heroes of that day.
 
Stay tuned!