Bloomberg Urges Senate To Pass 9/11 First Responders Bill

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (I) urged the Senate Monday to pass legislation that would help 9/11 first responders cover their health care costs.

“The Senate has a full week ahead of it and it should not adjourn until it passes this bill,” Bloomberg said.

Although Republicans voted against the bill earlier in the month, Bloomberg stressed that he was not attempting to lay the blame with any specific party.

“We’re looking to get it done. We’re not looking to point fingers on why it took so long,” Bloomberg said. “That’s water over the dam, under the bridge.”

The Mayor was joined by members of New York’s Congressional delegation, including Representatives Anthony Weiner (D), Charles Rangel (D) and Peter King. Senators Kristen Gillibrand (D) and Charles Schumer (D) were also in attendance.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) has indicated that Democrats will likely be able to pass the legislation prior to the end of the lame-duck session.