Administered aid to 9/11 victims until fired by President Bush

Washington, D.C.--Congressman Eliot Engel congratulated the Obama Administration for re-appointing Dr. John Howard as Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). As NIOSH Director, Dr. Howard administered federally-funded health care programs for 9/11 first responders exposed to Ground Zero toxins and was replaced by President Bush in 2008.

Thursday, the Department of Health and Human Services announced the reappointment of Dr. Howard as Director of the NIOSH and as the nation’s 9/11 Health Coordinator. Dr. Howard was placed in charge of federal 9/11 health programs in February 2006. In July 2008, the Bush Administration removed Dr. Howard as NIOSH Director and 9/11 Health Coordinator with little explanation and despite widespread praise of his job performance.

Rep. Eliot Engel said, “Dr. Howard was praised by all involved for his work in helping those made ill following the terror attack on 9/11. The Bush Administration in firing him chose ideology over competence. President Obama and the Health and Human Services Administration has done the right thing in re-appointing Dr. Howard. This sensitive position deserves a man of Dr. Howard’s capability. The people he did so much to help deserve no less.”

Rep. Engel said the Bush Administration refused to reappoint Dr. Howard just before the July 4th holiday last year, using the cover of the holiday to mute press coverage of their action. Rep. Engel and other New York area members of Congress protested vigorously at the time, but to no avail.

Dr, Howard’s reappointment is an important step forward for 9/11 responders in obtaining the health care and compensation they deserve, said Rep. Engel. He said Dr. Howard is an outstanding addition to President Obama’s team.”

Earlier this year, Congressman Engel joined with his colleagues in the New York congressional delegation and re-introduced H.R. 847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. This measure would provide comprehensive health care and compensation for those sickened or injured in the aftermath of 9/11. While the Members of Congress hope to pass the bill this year, leadership is still needed in Washington to make sure that current federal 9/11 health programs continue to provide care to ailing 9/11 first responders, lower Manhattan residents, workers, students and others.