"9/11 Responders' $4.2B Aid Package Called Miracle"

"It was called a 'Christmas miracle,' but a last-minute compromise by Congress will provide a smaller aid package than originally envisioned to help victims of the Sept. 11 attack on the World Trade Center and the responders sickened as they worked in its smoldering ruins.

The measure passed by Congress and sent to President Barack Obama on Wednesday would provide up to $4.2 billion in new aid to survivors and responders, $2 million less than originally proposed. Obama said he is eager to sign it. "

Andrew Miga and Beth Fouhy report for the Associated Press December 23, 2010.

Source: AP, 12/23/2010