Revised 9/11 Bill to Hit Congress --Overdue or Political Posturing?

Dec. 20, 2010— -- A New York lawmaker said she's hoping for a "Christmas miracle" in the form of a bill to compensate first responders from the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, despite years of inaction by Congress.

The $7.4 billion 9/11 bill came close to passing this month, but was rejected by Senate Republicans. The bill has since been revised and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., said she's confident they have enough votes -- more than nine years later.

"I urge my Republican colleagues to end the filibuster, engage in an open and respectful debate, and let each senator decide for themselves whether the heroes and victims of September 11th deserve quality health treatment and appropriate compensation for their tremendous loss and sacrifice," Gillibrand last week.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said last week that if Gillibrand presented a bill that included legitimate ways to offset the hefty price tag, she would support it.

First responders are still suffering lingering health effects from their rescue efforts at Ground Zero, including respiratory problems.

We want to know what you think: Is the 9/11 bill to compensate workers overdue or the victim of political posturing?

Click here to return to the "World News" page.