New Jersey bill extends deadlines for 9/11 responders to apply for benefits

(WPHL) — A New Jersey bill has been amended to remove the deadline for 9/11 first responders applying for disability benefits. 

Jersey City Fire Chief Jack Johnson expressed his gratitude for the change in an interview with PIX11. 

“It took a few years to get this done, but what it meant to me personally is- it’s a big relief,” said Johnson. “For me, it’s personal because I have a lot of friends that passed away.” 

New Jersey’s Ricci Act was originally signed into law in 2019. It gave first responders a two-year window to apply for benefits and required that potential applicants be notified of the opportunity. 

As more first responders became ill or disabilities became more prominent, applications submitted past the two-year deadline were routinely denied. In a petition to amend the act, first responders submitted affidavits of 98 active and retired state troopers who said they did not receive notice of the Ricci Act. 

In January, New Jersey courts ruled that first responders were not properly notified of the opportunity and the deadline. Appeals from applicants who were denied often alleged that there was no notice of a strict application deadline. 

On July 23, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed amendments to the Ricci Act that removed the two-year timeframe. Applicants who were previously denied can now petition for reconsideration or resubmit their forms to apply for benefits. 

Valerie Velazquez-Stetz, a 9/11 first responder and retired Jersey City police officer, told PIX11, “it was just like Christmas” when the amendments were signed. 

“It helps open so many doors financially for the first responders that are suffering and their families – this really helps their families out,” said Velazquez-Stetz. 

The changes also extend the timeframe for new applications for amended benefits. Eligible first responders used to have 30 days from the time they were notified of their 9/11 disability to apply under the Ricci Act. Under the new amendment, applicants now have 180 days. 

Those present in the wake of 9/11 are at a higher risk for illness, including cancers like leukemia and thyroid cancer. Advocates continue to petition for more money to fund the World Trade Center health program that was created to help victims and first responders with lasting health issues after 9/11.