This may infuriate many people. Try to think with your head and not just your emotions. Remember the tragedy that was 9/11 can not be undone. A tragic event for our entire nation. Many brave men and women died that day, not the least of which were the first responders and firemen. Many first responders, firemen, policemen and others became ill after responding to the tragedy. I recognize the sacrifice these people made in an attempt to save others. The fact that people are becoming sick after breathing toxic dust just adds to the tragedy that is 9/11. What I don't understand is why there is a bill making its way through Congress attempting to compensate people for becoming ill after doing what was their job. We give additional respect, courtesy and hopefully pay to police officers and firefighters because of the risks they take daily on the job. But that is their job. Don't they have medical insurance? QWouldn't Worker's Compensation step up? Why are we attempting to additionally compensate them for something tragic that occurred while performing their duties? Has anyone considered there are civilians who also breathed in that dust who are also becoming sick? They will not be compensated as a result of this bill. They didn't expect to. I believe anyone who rushed into those buildings in an effort to save others did so because that was what was in their heart. I don't feel they should be penalized for having the courage to come to the aid of others but I also do not believe it is necessary to compensate firefighters, police and paramedics or anyone else who became ill as a result of performing their duties that day. I believe as employees they should be covered under workers compensation or their medical insurance coverage. Why are we leading insurance companies off the hook? Have the insurance companies refuse to pay the medical bills for these brave people? Is that why now the taxpayers feel an obligation to further compensate people?
I do not mean any disrespect toward any of these people. Or are we should not have to pass a bill to make sure people doing their jobs who are injured receive proper compensation from the insurance companies who received premiums for years. Additionally anyone who has become seriously ill with little chance of recovering enough to return to work would be eligible for disability. It comes down to how often should be compensate someone. Whose responsibility is it? Understanding nothing will bring back someone's good health is this just an attempt to make ourselves feel better? Is the fear of being seen as politically incorrect or uncaring or I'm grateful for the sacrifices made by those on 9/11 we are allowing emotions to make decisions for us that are not prudent. The first avenue for compensation should be the insurance companies that are already in place and making money.
I pray for everyone affected by the tragedy.
