Bill > S04554

This bill modifies the administrative code of New York City to change how World Trade Center (WTC) rescue and recovery workers can qualify for benefits related to their participation in the September 11, 2001 emergency response efforts. Specifically, the bill eliminates the existing verification requirement for Tier 1 and Tier 2 police pension fund members and instead provides WTC benefits to all members who filed a timely Notice of Participation, regardless of their specific duties during the rescue and recovery operations. The bill creates a presumption that members who submitted a timely notice have a qualifying WTC-related condition, unless contrary evidence is presented. This means that police members who participated in WTC rescue efforts and subsequently develop a health condition can more easily qualify for disability benefits, with their retirement potentially being reclassified as an accidental disability retirement. The bill aims to streamline the process for first responders to receive benefits by removing bureaucratic barriers and creating a more presumptive approach to recognizing their service and potential health impacts. The current deadline to file a Notice of Participation remains September 11, 2026, and the bill would take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4554