WASHINGTON — Republican senators blocked Democratic legislation Thursday that sought to provide medical care to rescue workers and others who became ill as a result of breathing in toxic fumes, dust and smoke at the site of the World Trade Center attack of 2001.
The 9/11 health bill, a version of which was approved by the House in September, was among several initiatives Senate Democrats had hoped to approve this year. Supporters believe this was their last real opportunity to have the bill passed.
In a vote largely along party lines, the Senate rejected a procedural move by Democrats to end debate on the 9/11 health bill and to bring it to a vote; 60 yes votes were needed, but the move received only 57, with 42 votes against.
Republicans raised concerns about how to pay for the $7.4 billion measure.
Colorado’s senators, both Democrats, voted for the measure.
The New York Times
