October 1, 2001—The US Department of Labor’s Office of Workers Compensation Claims (OWCP) has established teams to expedite processing of workers’ compensation claims for eligible federal staff and emergency personnel involved in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
The Federal Employees’ Compensation Act covers all civilian federal employees who sustain injuries while on duty assisting recovery efforts in the Pentagon and World Trade Center attacks and subsequent rescue operations. Surviving spouses and dependent children are also entitled to benefits.
The Department of Defense has set up a crisis center in Crystal City, Virginia to assist Pentagon personnel and their relatives, and the Department of Labor has OWCP staff and computer equipment on site to process claims immediately. Federal civilian employees are also encouraged to call 866/999-FECA for assistance on compensation claims.
“As President Bush stated, our way of life, our very freedom came under attack this week,” said Labor Secretary Elaine Chao. “In the midst of this tragedy, we have resolved to do the work of the people. Checks should go out; claims should be processed; and work sites should be inspected. The only way these attacks will succeed is if they prevent our government from serving the American people. This will not happen. Our resolve to do our duty and serve the country we love will not be deterred or diminished by terrorist acts.”
