A bit over 14 years ago on September 11, 2001 several coordinated terrorist attacks were launched on America. Americans vowed to never forget the sacrifices of those who died or were injured as a result of those attacks. Every year on 9/11 politicians make a big show that they will “Never Forget”.

Thousands of volunteers helped in the rescue and recovery. Thousands helped clean up the devastation. We will “Never Forget”.

But our Representatives and Senators in Congress seem to have forgotten. They are glad to say “never forget” in their speeches. But they seemed to forget to “Never Forget” in their actions.

The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act which provides health care and compensation for those responders to and in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Identical bills were introduced in both houses of Congress back in the spring and are still bottled up in committee.

There are many co-sponsors in both the Senate and House so some have shown that they will “Never Forget” or at least remember for now. But the bill does no one any good if there is no vote.

Five years ago was there was a last minute compromise called the “Christmas miracle” to extend the bill for 5 years. My understanding is some of the parts of the bill agreed to then expire next week and some parts a few months later.

It would be nice if our Representatives and Senators in Congress could extend it soon and make the provisions permanent. And show that they did not forget to “Never Forget”.