Gillibrand, Schumer push for commemorative coin for 25th anniversary of 9/11

Press Release, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand

 NEW YORK – Yesterday, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, Charles E. Schumer, and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act, which would require the U.S. Mint to design and mint coins to honor the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The coins would be sold in 2027 at a price that would pay back the U.S. Mint for production, and surcharge proceeds would go to support the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and its mission to “never forget.”

“On the 25th anniversary of one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, we must continue to honor our promise to never forget,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act would do just that while also generating funds to ensure that the 9/11 Memorial & Museum can sustain itself – two other ways we commit to never forget. Our city and nation owe our 9/11 heroes a tremendous debt, and it is time to get this done.”

“Minting commemorative coins for the 25th anniversary of September 11th provides a unique way to honor those who lost their lives and those who undertook brave acts of heroism, and to recall the patriotism and community that their sacrifice inspired,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to support this legislation that will honor those we lost, support the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and uphold our sacred promise to never forget.”

Representatives Dan Goldman (D-NY) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives, and the bill is supported by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

In addition to the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act, Senator Gillibrand leads the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act in the U.S. Senate. The bill provides permanent and mandatory funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and updates an outdated funding formula to prevent a future funding shortfall and ensure that survivors and first responders don’t lose access to care.

Earlier this week, it was reported that the Trump administration cut staff that provide critical support for the WTCHP, which offers medical monitoring and treatment for first responders and survivors diagnosed with 9/11-related health conditions, including many types of cancers, respiratory illnesses, and more. The cuts include the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the administrator of the WTCHP, who makes critical decisions regarding covered conditions and ensures the WTCHP complies with statutes enacted by Congress.