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"Jimmy Nolan's Law" Gives Injured 9/11 Heroes More Time to File Claims

Sep 22, 2009 | Parker Waichman Alonso LLP

New York's 9/11 emergency workers now have more time to file compensation claims.  Earlier this month, New York Governor David  Paterson signed “Jimmy Nolan's Law” which extends the time that 9/11 workers can file claims against the City of New York and private contractors  for injuries resulting from their participation in the World Trade Center rescue, recovery or cleanup operations.

In the hours and days after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, thousands of rescue workers descended on Ground Zero to help with recovery efforts. Sifting through dust and rubble, sometimes with their bare hands, many lacked the clothing and equipment that could have kept them safe from harm. Several studies have confirmed that Ground Zero first responders are suffering from ill health as a result of their exposure to toxic dust at the site.

Under current law, injured 9/11 rescue and recovery workers had only 90 days to file claims.  However, thousands of “second wave” 9/11 workers developed health problems long after the 90-day limitations period had expired.  “Jimmy Nolan’s Law” allows eligible workers an additional one-year period to file claims.

The legislation is named after 9/11 victim Jimmy Nolan, a carpenter from Yonkers and father of three.  Following the terrorist attacks, Mr. Nolan slept at the World Trade Center site for three weeks, assisting in the rescue and recovery efforts.  He now suffers from wood and skin allergies, as well as respiratory problems, because of his exposure to toxic dust and debris at Ground Zero.

"Governor Paterson's decision to sign 'Jimmy Nolan's Law' is a significant legislative victory for all Ground Zero rescue and recovery workers," David B. Krangle, an attorney with Parker Waichman Alonso LLP, a Great Neck, NY law firm that has represented injured 9/11 emergency workers, said in a statement.  "This law ensures that these injured heroes will have access to the compensation they deserve."