‘We’re all ticking time bombs’: Budget cuts gut 9/11 health protections as community braces for crisis

The World Trade Center Health Program, which has provided critical care for over two decades to those exposed to toxic dust from the 9/11 attacks, faces renewed threats due to staffing cuts and agency turmoil. Recent layoffs, including a 20% reduction in clinical staff, have led to appointment delays of up to eight months, raising concerns about unmet cancer and mental health needs. Advocates emphasize the urgency of bipartisan legislative support to sustain the program, which continues to serve over 150,000 enrolled individuals.