NCJ Number
191919
Journal
Victim Policy Pipeline Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: Summer/Fall 2001 Pages: 1-4
Editor(s)
Susan Smith Howley
Date Published
2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article explains the provisions of the legislation the U.S. Congress has enacted to aid the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Abstract
On Friday, September 14, 2001 Congress approved an emergency spending bill to provide $40 billion in emergency funding to respond to the terrorist attacks. H.R.2888 provides $10 billion to President Bush immediately. Another $10 billion was to be made available 15 days after the Office for Management and Budget submitted a detailed plan for the use of these funds. The remaining $20 billion may be obligated only as part of an additional emergency appropriations bill. No less than half of the money is designated for disaster recovery and assistance. The same day, Congress passed a law to expedite payment of public safety officer benefits for those killed or injured in the line of duty in connection with the rescue or recovery efforts in responding to the terrorist attacks. The Air Transportation System Stabilization Act was signed by the President on September 22, 2001. Among other provisions, this act created a government-sponsored fund for victims who were injured as well as the estates of those killed who choose not to sue the airlines. Victims will have 2 years to file a claim before a Special Master for their economic and noneconomic losses, including pain and suffering. Punitive damages may not be awarded. The Victims of Terrorism Relief Act of 2001 passed the House on September 13. This act extends to all victims who died as a result of wounds or injuries sustained in the terrorist acts the same income and estate tax relief currently provided to members of the armed services killed while serving in a combat zone. Another bill provides for the expedited payment of certain benefits for public safety officers who were killed or suffered a catastrophic injury as a direct and proximate result of a personal injury sustained in the line of duty in connection with the terrorist attacks. Other bills pertain to aid for businesses and employees who suffered economically as a result of the terrorist attacks. This article also explains resolutions and recognition measures passed by Congress in connection with the terrorist attacks.