[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 173 (Tuesday, December 1, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H8657]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        PROPER PROCESS FOR THE 9/11 HEALTH AND COMPENSATION ACT

  (Mr. BURGESS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today I want to address the importance of 
passing the reauthorization of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and 
Compensation Act, H.R. 1786, and this needs to be done as a standalone 
bill. The reauthorization of this bill is far too important to be 
rolled into a package at the end of the year.
  Our country was attacked 14 years ago, and these Americans responded 
without hesitation. First responders are undoubtedly heroes in the eyes 
of America. They at least deserve to have their bill heard 
individually.
  Five years ago, in the last days of the 111th Congress, this bill was 
passed. It was the last bill that Congress passed that year in the 
lame-duck 2010 year.
  It is important that this bill be brought up. It is important that 
each of us put our cards in. Vote your conscience. Vote ``yes'' or 
``no.'' But we deserve a chance to vote on this bill as a standalone 
bill.

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