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AMSTERDAM, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko issued the following statement on recent reports that the Trump Administration has withheld nearly $4 million from the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund over the past four years with no explanation given:

“In one of our nation’s darkest hours, our firefighters, police officers and first responders were there for us. During the attacks of September 11, 2001 and in the days that followed, they raced into danger to save others and risked and gave their lives for our nation. They were there for us when we needed them most, and we have always dedicated ourselves as a nation to always do the same for them, and for their surviving loved ones.

“19 years later, far too many of these heroes have been taken from us too soon and many more are suffering the lasting effects of their sacrifice and service that day. I am astonished and enraged to read credible reporting today that the Trump Administration has been siphoning millions of dollars in Congressionally appropriated taxpayer money intended to go to 9/11 survivors and their families. If true, this marks a staggering betrayal of every firefighter, police officer and first responder who risked their lives for us that day, and a violation of everything for which our nation stands.

“I fought for years in Congress to ensure that the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund would have the resources needed to support these heroes and their loved ones. Last year, we advanced legislation that delivered on that longstanding commitment. We have a sacred duty to ensure the bravery of our heroes is never forgotten and that they and their loved ones are getting the resources and care they need and deserve. We overcame significant headwinds to get that job done, and I am profoundly disappointed to learn that the Treasury Department, under the President’s direction, is refusing to deliver.”

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