County Executive Ken Jenkins has issued a call to federal elected leaders, urging them to vote against the proposed House Reconciliation Bill. Jenkins highlights that the bill proposes cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, hospital support, and assistance for seniors, women, and children. Additionally, he notes reductions in funding for the World Trade Center Health Program.
Jenkins expressed his concerns during a recent visit to Westchester’s First Responders Memorial. “Earlier last week, I told you about the time spent at Westchester’s First Responders Memorial, running my fingers across the engraved names of the brave men and women who gave their lives for our country—working on the pile after 9/11, and ultimately succumbing to 9/11-related illnesses,” he stated. He emphasized that it is due to these individuals’ sacrifices that he is calling for action against the bill.
He described the World Trade Center Health Program as “a critical lifeline” for over 135,000 first responders, survivors, and families affected by September 11th attacks. Jenkins added that many of these individuals continue to live with severe health conditions. “They are not just statistics—they are our neighbors, our coworkers, and our friends,” he said. “We owe them more than gratitude—we owe them the care and support they have rightfully earned.”
The timing of Jenkins’ appeal coincides with an important anniversary related to 9/11 recovery efforts. “This Friday, May 30 marks the anniversary of the formal end of rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero,” he noted. Jenkins concluded by stating that Westchester County remains committed to advocating for those affected by 9/11: “Westchester County stands united in urging federal elected leaders to act—our 9/11 heroes are counting on it.”
