Connecting 9/11 Survivors to a Lifeline of Benefits

New York State Landmarks Will Be Illuminated Blue and Flags Are Being Flown at Half-Staff in Observation of 9/11 Anniversary

Governor Issues Proclamation in Commemoration of Attacks

New York State Provides $500,000 Grant for the 9/11 Museum To Help Cover Operating Expenses

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of a new campaign to identify and encourage individuals who may have been impacted by the devastation of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in Lower Manhattan and Western Brooklyn to enroll in federal benefit programs, including the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. The 9/11 Notice Act, signed into law by Governor Hochul in 2023, requires businesses located in the New York City disaster area to ensure that affected individuals are made aware of their rights to register for the two programs, which provide medical care and compensation for eligible individuals with WTC-related illnesses.

“While New York’s recovery from the horrific terrorist attacks on 9/11 has been remarkable, there are still thousands of New Yorkers, including office and finance professionals, retail and service workers, building and maintenance staff and hospitality and delivery people who are suffering from health conditions that resulted from the events of that devastating day,” Governor Hochul said. “These resources, available at no cost to businesses, will ensure that the victims of 9/11 are made aware of the substantial benefits available.”

The World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund have served as a lifeline for tens of thousands of residents, workers, first- responders, and students with medical care provided and more than $14.25 billion in compensation awarded since 2011. More information on both programs, including how to enroll or register, is available on the newly created website, ny.gov/september11.

In addition to the Governor’s actions today to support and honor 9/11 victims, New York State is providing $500,000 to support the 9/11 Museum, which tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. The funds will help the Museum cover operating expenses.

In addition, 15 New York State landmarks will be illuminated blue to observe 9/11, and flags are being flown at half-staff on state government buildings in remembrance of those who lost their lives due to the terrorist attacks. The landmarks to be illuminated include:

• One World Trade Center
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• Kosciuszko Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• Lake Placid Olympic Center
• MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal 
• Moynihan Train Hall
• Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park