September 14th - September 20th, 2006

Guidelines Released for 9/11 Coroners

Wednesday, September 20^th: New medical guidelines were released this week that require coroners to test for asbestos, metals, and pulverized glass when performing autopsies on people suspected of dying from Ground Zero-related medical problems, the New York Post reported.

Agreement Reached on Freedom Tower Occupants

Wednesday, September 20^th: Governor George Pataki, Governor Jon Corzine, and Mayor Michael Bloomberg this week announced lease agreements by state and federal government tenants for office space in the World Trade Center's Freedom Tower totaling a combined one million square feet. For more on this story, please click here.

Senate Excludes Amendment for Sick 9/11 Workers

Friday, September 15^th: An amendment proposed by U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton to designate nearly $2 billion for sick 9/11 responders was struck from a bill reviewed this week by Senate Republicans, who deemed it not "germane," the New York Daily News reported. The amendment would have entitled each person sickened from Ground Zero exposure to receive $5,800 a year for five years, the News continued.

In a statement, Clinton reaffirmed her commitment to those suffering from 9/11-related illnesses. "Their country should answer their calls for help," she stated, vowing not to give up and indicating that she plans to either resubmit the measure or propose other legislation to aid 9/11 responders and nearby residents, the Daily News reported.

While in the past Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been reluctant to link the illnesses of 9/11 volunteers with their service at Ground Zero, he endorsed Clinton's proposal, the Daily News added.

Bill Preventing Entry Fees to WTC Memorial and Museum Vetoed

Friday, September 15^th: Governor George Pataki vetoed a bill passed by the New York State legislature that would have prohibited the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation from charging any admission to the World Trade Center Memorial and Museum, the New York Times reported.

Those in support of the bill expressed concern that fees could prevent people from paying their respects, the paper reported. "There should be no barriers," State Senator Martin Golden told the Times.

Pataki reasoned that with the operating costs for the memorial and museum estimated at $50 million annually, the WTC Memorial Foundation could not rule out charging an admission, the Times added.