Washington, DC - "With this vote, Congress has provided funding for our troops while also putting forward sensible provisions to begin the withdrawal of troops from Iraq. I call upon the President to work with Congress in order to ensure the troops receive these funds and that we change course in Iraq.

I am also pleased that with passage of this bill, we have made an important step toward meeting our responsibility to address the growing health needs affecting those exposed to the toxic air around Ground Zero in the wake of 9/11. I am proud that this bill includes $50 million in funding for 9/11 health, which will not only help provide treatment to those affected in the New York metro area, but also to responders from all over the country who are suffering from 9/11 health effects. This funding will help meet immediate health needs and allow 9/11 health programs to continue operating. I will continue to fight, along with my colleagues in the New York delegation, to secure the federal commitment and funding required to meet 9/11 health needs in the long-term."