Council Member Morano introduces Intro 1089 for 9/11 first responders office
Frank Morano introduces Intro 1089 to create an Office of Assistance for 9/11 First Responders and Survivors, arguing they shouldn't have to navigate bureaucracy alone.
Councilmember Marano, followed by Brewer.
Thank you, Majority Leader.
Twenty-five years ago, after the worst day in our city's history, New York made a promise that we will never forget.
But never forget has to be more than two words that we say every September.
And that's why today one of the bills I'm introducing is Intro 1089 to create an Office of Assistance for 9-11 First Responders and Survivors.
Because here's the absurd reality.
A firefighter, a police officer, a construction worker, a volunteer, a downtown resident or survivor can spend years dealing with the consequences of September 11th
and then have to become an expert in government bureaucracy just to figure out where to turn for help.
They survived September 11th.
They shouldn't have to survive the paperwork, too.
This office would give first responders and survivors a dedicated place in city government to help them navigate available services, benefits, and assistance.
We're now a quarter century removed from September 11th.
The ceremonies will become fewer.
The headlines will become less frequent.
But for thousands of New Yorkers, the consequences are in history.
They're living them right now.
They wake up with them every morning.
So if we really mean never forget, let's put those words into law.
Let's make sure that when the people who were there for their city and when their city was in need, let's make sure their city is there for them.
That's why I hope my colleagues will join me in calling.
Post-sponsoring, Intro 1089.
Thank you.